An increasing movement toward battery-powered cars has more and more Fire Companies responding to accidents and incidents that may involve these automobiles and trucks. That is why the West Grove Fire Company held a training session dedicated to helping firefighters learn unique techniques for responding to incidents involving Tesla vehicles.

While all vehicles are unique and different, most firefighters have become accustomed to handling car crashes, vehicle fires and extrication evolutions on typical gas- and diesel-powered vehicles. Increasingly, firefighters are seeing more and more battery-powered and hybrid vehicles on the road, and that trend will only increase. Battery powered vehicles require special care and attention, as the components are different and there are special hazards to consider.

Recently, a safety representative from Tesla came to the London Britain station to make a presentation about Tesla sedans and SUVs, and offer direct education on emergency response techniques. For example, the large battery that powers Tesla vehicles is located on the underside of the vehicle, and there is also a second battery for running other electrical equipment on board. The large battery operates at 400 volts, and the high voltage wiring presents unique hazards for firefighters. The presentation showed firefighters the location of the high voltage wiring on all of Tesla's models, and special wiring loops that can be cut safely to reduce electrical hazards at emergency scenes.

While rare, fires involving the high voltage batteries on electric vehicles present special hazards. These calls will require copious amounts of water over an extended period of time and special considerations for the safety of emergency workers. The presentation also reviewed areas of focus for firefighters who might have to use rescue equipment to cut into Tesla vehicles. Where to cut and -- importantly -- where not to cut were the focus of this portion of the presentation. Access to latches to release doors and hoods were also reviewed.

The Fire Company is very grateful to Tesla for providing this training, and members were impressed with Tesla's commitment to helping first responders learn the emergency response techniques for working with Tesla cars. Tesla maintains a website that provides all information for first responders: https://www.tesla.com/firstresponders In addition, the National Fire Protection Association also provides helpful information for first responders: https://www.nfpa.org/EV

WGFC is grateful to Tesla for providing the training. Tesla's trainer was Ryan Smith, who is also a firefighter in Chester County with the Minquas Fire Company of Downingtown.

West Grove Fire Company has a well-earned reputation for ongoing training for its volunteers and career personnel. Training is held nearly every Monday evening, with more involved in-house and external training sessions available as well. Thousands of hours of training are completed by WGFC each year, assuring that the Fire Company is prepared for whatever emergency firefighters and EMTs may face.