Scholarly record
ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF FLOOD EVENTS ON FIRE BRIGADE INTERVENTIONS INVOLVING VEHICLES WITH ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES
Abstract
This article analyzes the impact of flood events on fire brigade response activities concerning vehicles using alternative energy sources, with a particular focus on electric vehicles. Given the increasing number of electric vehicles and the observed rise in the frequency and intensity of floods attributed to climate change, the probability of these vehicles becoming submerged is increasing, posing specific challenges for fire brigades. The analysis focuses on the risks associated primarily with electric shock and battery ignition after submersion. The article examines in detail the specificities of high-voltage systems in electric vehicles and analyzes the potential risks for fire brigades during response activities in submerged conditions. Emphasis is placed on the use of personal protective equipment, proper isolation procedures for high-voltage systems, and monitoring the risk of battery thermal runaway. The article emphasizes that although submerged electric vehicles do not pose a risk of electrifying the surrounding aquatic environment, the potential hazards associated with vehicle and battery damage require heightened caution and adherence to standard operating procedures and manufacturer instructions.
Publication Impact Profile
- Captures
- Mendeley - Readers: 2
Publication details
References9
Ballay, M. and M. Monosi, 2024. Understanding the key elements of electric vehicle technology in relation to fire departments when performing rescue work. �ilina: University of �ilina in �ilina
National policy for the implementation of alternative fuel infrastructure in the conditions of the Slovak Republic. Draft approved by the Government of the Slovak Republic on 09.11.2016. [online], Bratislava: Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic [cited 5 May 2025]. Available from: https://rokovania.gov.sk/RVL/Material/21565/1
Global EV Outlook 2019 [online]. Iea.org website, 1.5. 2019 [cited 10 May 2025]. Available from: https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2019
HROM�DKO, J. Special combustion engines and alternative propulsion systems. Prague: Grada Publishing, 2012. ISBN 978-80-247-4455
Puna M. 2019, Alternative energy sources for automobile propulsion - dangers for responding firefighters and their minimization. In: Proceedings of the international conference FIRECO 2019 Safety and innovations in the automotive industry held on May 2, 2019 in Trenc�n. Bratislava: Fire Engineering and Expertise Institute of the Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic, ISBN 978-80-89051-23-6.
Oravcova J., Lajcak M., Buchcar P.2019, Proposal of a methodology for rescue work in an electric vehicle traffic accident under HaZZ conditions. In: Proceedings of the international conference FIRECO 2019 Safety and innovations in the automotive industry held on May 2, 2019 in Trenc�n. Bratislava: Fire Engineering and Expertise Institute of the Ministry of the Interior of the SR, ISBN 978-80-89051-23-6.
Ballay, M. and M. Monosi, Technology of electric vehicles in relation to fire departments during rescue operations. [online]. �ilina: University of �ilina in �ilina [cited 5 May 2025]. Available from: https://www.fbi.uniza.sk/uploads/Dokumenty/casopis_km/archiv/2016_02/06O1%20Ballay%20Monosi.pdf
Handbook for Accidents and Rescue of Motor Vehicles with High-Voltage Traction Batteries, 2018, First Edition. Published by: Volkswagen Slovakia, a.s.
Handbook for Emergency Situations, 2020. Published by: TESLA Motors.
View or Download full articleAccess options
SWS access login
Login as SWS Scientific CommitteeLogin as SWS Scientific PartnerLogin as SWS AuthorAuthors and approved SWS contributors will read and export their own linked papers after identity matching by SWS profile, email and SGEM GlobalID.
For librarian assistance: [email protected]
Purchase Instant Access
- Article can be downloaded after successful payment.
- Article may be used according to SWS library access terms.
- Article cannot be redistributed.