Tesla Fire Prompts Fire Department Warning on Saltwater Hazards for Electric Vehicles

author: FutureCar Staff    

Electric vehicle owners in Florida are now on high alert following Hurricane Idalia, as the storm brought saltwater in contact with their vehicles. The Palm Harbor fire department issued a warning to hybrid or electric vehicle owners to relocate their vehicles from their garages if they had come into contact with saltwater. This warning came after a Tesla car caught fire in Dunedin.

The department emphasized that saltwater exposure can trigger combustion in lithium-ion batteries, urging people to move their vehicles to higher ground if possible. The warning also applied to golf carts and electric scooters, with the department advising against driving these vehicles through water.

Tampa fire rescue explained that when EV batteries are damaged by saltwater, a chemical reaction called thermal runaway occurs within the cells. This causes the batteries to heat up and increases the risk of fires.

Tesla has its own recommendations for users in these situations. The company advises moving the vehicle to a location not at risk or to higher ground if there is a risk of submersion. In the event of exposure to saltwater, Tesla recommends treating the vehicle as if it has been in an accident and contacting the insurance company. They also advise against operating the vehicle until it has been inspected.

If any signs of fire, smoke, audible popping/hissing, or heating are noticed coming from the vehicle, Tesla instructs users to step away and immediately contact local first responders.

For more information on the future of mobility, you can follow this link to Benzinga's coverage.

Photo by Hadrian on Shutterstock

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FutureCar Staff