Page | 026 Battery fires can take up to 24 hours to fully cool. After suppression and smoke has visibly subsided, a thermal imaging camera can be used to actively measure the temperature of the high voltage battery and monitor the trend of heating or
cooling. There must be no fire, smoke, audible popping/hissing, or heating present in the high voltage battery for at least 45 minutes before the vehicle can be released to second responders (such as law enforcement, vehicle transporters, etc.). The battery must be completely cooled before releasing the vehicle to second responders or otherwise leaving the incident.
Always advise second responders that there is a risk of battery re-ignition. Second responders should be advised to position the vehicle to drain excess water out of the vehicle by tilting or repositioning it. This operation can assist in mitigating possible re-ignition.
Due to potential re-ignition, a Model Y that has been involved in a submersion, fire, or a collision that has compromised the high voltage battery should be stored in an open area at least 50 feet (15 m) from any exposure.
High-Voltage Battery — Fire Damage
Similar to conventional and other electric and hybrid vehicles, a burning battery releases super-heated gases and toxic vapors. This release may include volatile organic compounds, hydrogen gas, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, soot, particulates containing oxides of nickel, aluminum, lithium, copper, cobalt, and hydrogen fluoride. Responders should always protect themselves with full PPE, including a SCBA, and take appropriate measures to protect civilians downwind from the incident.
The high voltage battery consists of lithium-ion cells. If damaged, only a small amount of fluid can leak.
The high voltage battery and drive unit(s) are liquid cooled with a typical glycol-based automotive coolant. If damaged, this blue coolant can leak out of the high voltage battery.
A damaged high voltage battery can create rapid heating of the battery cells.
If you notice smoke, steam, or audible popping or hissing coming from the high voltage battery, assume that it is heated and take appropriate action as described above.
WARNING During all firefighting activities, consider the vehicle energized. Always wear full PPE including a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
Model Y Emergency Response Guide 24
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