Fire brigade in crisis mode: new challenges from electric vehicles!

Fire brigade in crisis mode: new challenges from electric vehicles!

On April 14, 2025, Jochen Schäfer, specialist consultant electromobility of the German Fire Brigade Association (DFV), gave a lecture on the challenges that electromobility brings with it. Around 340 firefighters took part in online and received important information about fire fighting and technical assistance in burning electric vehicles, especially for high -voltage batteries.

Special dangers in fires of electric vehicles were discussed. Eichenextrem conditions such as explosion -like blowing and burning the battery cells, high heat development and the release of dangerous substances pose major challenges. In particular, the thermal runaway, a phenomenon in which the temperature in a lithium-ion battery increases uncontrollably, was highlighted as an additional risk. Scientific approaches to fighting fire were presented, with cooling proved to be the only effective method. In the presentations, it was impressively presented that a reduction in oxygen has no effect.

strategies of action and risks

In the training, specific strategies for action were also highlighted. The use of water, including additives such as multi -area foam or cafs (Compressed Air Foam System), has proven itself in practice. The main goal of fire fighting is to reduce the battery temperature below 70 ° C. The risk from escaping hazardous substances varies depending on the vehicle type. There is a lower risk of small batteries, industrial trucks and electric cars, while at local facilities, buses and truck measures are required for extinguishing water retention. DIEVNEBIDENNote that the position of the high -voltage batteries must be clarified in the event of an accident, signals the need for targeted information and preparation.

emergency services are encouraged to use thermal cameras in order to be able to point out possible fire events at an early stage. At the same time, measures for fire fighting and rescue are required to ensure the safety of everyone. Meyer Port4 GmbH plays an important role in this training and research by operating the “electromobility competence center”.

outlook for future developments

An outlook on future developments is expected on May 5, 2025 when Mathias Bessel introduces the ability management of the federal and state governments. The focus is on through retainability and self -sufficiency in dealing with electromobility. The further information on this topic can also be found on hfuknord and DGUV