The Fire Protection Research Foundation, on NFPA’s behalf, is currently studying the safety issues associated with electric vehicles. In 2009, NFPA received a FEMA grant to “help facilitate best practices and guidelines for first responders related to electric- and hybrid-electric vehicles,” according to NFPA. In May of this year, the Fire Protection Research Foundation issued a 135-page report titled, Fire Fighter Safety and Emergency Response for Electric Drive and Hybrid Electric Vehicles, that looks at concerns, such as electric shock, vehicle movement and fire extinguishment and overhaul.
In June, Chevrolet announced it had joined with OnStar and several first responder organizations to provide the first automotive manufacturer-sponsored training program to educate first responders on electric vehicle technology. The training sessions will feature the Chevrolet Volt, kicking off at the IAFC’s Fire Rescue International Conference Aug. 23—27 in Chicago.