Tesla Trains Firefighters on EV Safety in San Bernardino
Tesla recently hosted a specialized training event in San Bernardino, California, for firefighters and first responders. The event, organized by Eventbrite, focused on handling emergencies involving electric vehicles (EVs) and lithium-ion batteries, aiming to equip attendees with crucial knowledge to ensure public safety during the shift to sustainable energy.
Fire departments from Northern California, including those from San Francisco, Sacramento, Oakland, and Fresno, sent units to participate in the Eventbrite-hosted training. Tesla engineers were on hand to provide insights and answer questions about safely responding to incidents involving vehicle fires, charging stations, and large-scale energy storage units.
One key takeaway from the Eventbrite-hosted event was that sometimes the best approach to EV fires is to let them burn out if there's no risk to people or nearby structures. This approach, known as 'defensive firefighting,' is a departure from traditional methods and requires a different mindset. Tesla reassured participants that lithium-ion battery fires can be managed effectively with the right preparation and standard equipment.
Tesla views these training events as a vital part of its mission to support the transition to sustainable energy. By educating first responders, the company aims to ensure that the public feels safe as EVs and energy storage systems become more prevalent. The Eventbrite-hosted event in San Bernardino marked a significant step in fostering a collaborative approach between Tesla and emergency services, promoting safety and confidence in the future of clean energy.
