Specialized firefighting suppression systems and materials are often required to manage and extinguish lithium-ion battery fires effectively. This doesn't mean you should avoid owning an electric vehicle (further down, we'll even remind you that gas vehicles have a higher likelihood of fire), but you should have situational awareness and be mindful of the safety measures necessary to protect your home and property.
We contacted Jenny Naughton, Executive Vice President, Chubb Risk Consulting Officer, to learn more. Chubb is the largest publicly traded property and casualty company in the world.
"Lithium-ion batteries are ubiquitous but come with potential risks, such as fires, which have significantly increased in some cities," reports Naughton. "Even without traditional combustion engines, EV battery fires are difficult to extinguish."
Why are Lithium-ion fires hard to put out?
- High Energy Density: Battery cells store a large amount of energy in a relatively small and lightweight package. When they catch fire, the release of this stored energy contributes to the intense heat and persistence of the fire.
- Chemical Reactions: Lithium-ion battery systems contain flammable electrolytes. When a fire starts, the chemical reactions within the battery can sustain the combustion, making it difficult to control.
- Oxygen Independence: Unlike traditional fires that rely on external oxygen, lithium-ion batteries have their own oxygen source within the chemical reactions. This makes it possible for the fire to continue even in environments with limited external oxygen.
- Re-Ignition Potential: Lithium-ion battery fires may experience re-ignition after being initially extinguished. If the internal temperature remains high enough, the fire can reignite the rechargeable batteries, posing additional challenges for firefighting efforts.
- Toxic Fumes: Lithium-ion battery fires can release toxic fumes, making it important for responders to take precautions while dealing with such incidents.
How to Protect Your Home Against Electric Vehicle Fires
"Ensure safe charging station installation at home by hiring a licensed electrician. Upgraded electrical panels and wiring may be necessary," shares Naughton. "Garages should have smoke and heat-detection systems and proper ventilation, especially when storing EVs alongside conventional cars. And, if you're planning to share your charging station with other vehicle owners, ensure coverage against potential property damage liabilities under your homeowner’s insurance policy."
To further support battery fire prevention, she adds, "Keep garages free of combustibles, and if an EV is damaged, avoid parking in the garage and seek immediate inspection to reduce the risk of fires."
Prevent Battery Overheating
Protecting your electric vehicle (EV) battery from overheating is crucial for both safety and the longevity of the battery. A functional Battery Thermal Management System (BTMS) is essential; it regulates the battery temperature by cooling it during excessive heat and heating it in cold conditions. Regular maintenance, including checking for debris or blockages in the cooling system, is vital for optimal performance.
To further safeguard your EV battery, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. Park in the shade during hot weather and utilize pre-conditioning features in cold temperatures. Be mindful of charging practices; limit rapid charging to when necessary, and avoid deep discharges. Charging in moderate temperatures and scheduling charging during cooler parts of the day can also contribute to battery health.
Keep the EV's software up to date, as manufacturers may release updates that improve battery management and efficiency. Monitoring battery health indicators is crucial for the early detection of any anomalies.
Facts vs. Myths
While EVs and Li-Ion batteries catch a lot of heat for allegedly being at higher risk for fires (pun intended), the data shows otherwise. As you consider buying an electric vehicle, remember the following:
- Battery explosions are very rare: Electric vehicle battery packs and lithium-ion cells are rigorously tested to meet safety standards.
- Safety risks can be avoided: Proper installation and grounding of a home charging station ensure safe battery charging and advanced safety features prevent shocks or electrical hazards.
- Electric car fires are rare: The potential fire risk remains low. Electric vehicle fires are statistically less happen than those caused by gas-powered vehicles. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that 4.9 gas vehicles of 100,000 experience a vehicle fire, and only 2.5 electric vehicle fires occur per 100,000 vehicles. This means EVs are nearly half as likely to catch fire as internal combustion engine cars.
