Florida fire marshal says electric cars stuck in hurricane floods

Jimmy Patronis says electric car owners should park their vehicles outside and unplug them

Florida Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis described electric vehicles affected by Hurricanes Helen and Milton as “ticking time bombs” because of the risk of them catching fire after coming into contact with salt water.

Just days before Hurricane Milton hit, Patronis issued an important warning to all owners of vehicles equipped with lithium-ion battery packs in the wake of Hurricane Helene. He revealed that following the Helen incident, authorities had received alerts to nearly 50 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. Of these, 11 of the fires involved electric vehicles.

READ: Tesla catches fire after Hurricane Helene floods garage

“Floridians who own electric vehicles who live along the coastline are at risk of these electric vehicles being inundated by saltwater storm surge, which poses a dangerous fire threat to Florida families and their homes,” he said. “If you own One of the vehicles damaged by flooding, including a car, scooter, hoverboard, golf cart or children’s toy, unplug the vehicle or device and move it safely from your home or apartment to an open space space”.

Owners of hybrid and fuel cell vehicles are also warned of potential fire hazards. Patronis also called on electric vehicle manufacturers to notify customers in storm surge areas to relocate their vehicles and provided some advice to owners of lithium-ion-powered vehicles and devices. For example, locals are urged to open all windows and/or doors to allow any potentially flammable gases to escape from the passenger compartment.

Additionally, owners are encouraged to move their vehicles outside and unplug them. Owners would also be wise to disconnect the vehicle’s 12-volt battery and avoid any contact with the high-voltage battery “if the vehicle shows signs of damage or overheating of the high-voltage battery.”

“As I have said before, these damaged vehicles and equipment are ticking time bombs, and my office will continue to coordinate with federal, state and local officials to ensure consumers and first responders are aware of these fire hazards following Hurricane Milton.” the fire chief added.