A warning to Florida residents and first responders was issued to remind them of the fire hazard associated with lithium-ion batteries, electric vehicles (EV), as well as hybrid and fuel cell vehicles in preparation for Hurricane Milton.

The CFO’s Division of State Fire Marshal has confirmed 48 lithium-ion battery fires related to storm surge from Hurricane Helene, with 11 of those fires associated with EVs.

Consumer items containing lithium-ion batteries include cars, scooters, hover boards, golf carts and children’s toys.

The CFO also called on EV manufacturers to pro-active alert consumers to place their EVs on higher ground.

“In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, we have seen nearly 50 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries with 11 of those fires being caused by EVs. Floridians living on the coastline who own EVs are at risk of those EVs being inundated with saltwater storm surge, which presents a dangerous fire threat to Florida families and their homes,” said CFO & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis. “If you have one of these vehicles including cars, scooters, hover boards, golf carts or children’s toys that have been compromised by flooding, please unplug the vehicle or device, and move it safely away from your home or apartment into a clear open space. If a vehicle needs to be towed, contact a reputable tow company in your area to safely remove it from your property. EVs and lithium-battery powered devices cannot be disposed of in a typical car lot or trash bin, so you will also want to contact your local government on the best locations for safe disposal.”

Earlier this year, the Idaho National Laboratory conducted analysis on flooded EVs and found that stranded energy could lead to fire.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration prompted the study when spontaneous EV fires were reported after accidental EV immersion.

According to author Michelle Goff, sea-water flooded vehicles can pose significant risks, including fire. Thermal runaway, an uncontrollable increase in temperature, she explained, is just one way in which a fire can start.

The vehicles studied revealed varying degrees of water infiltration but did not result in catastrophic events related to the batteries. Even so, said Goff, the researchers found evidence of mold and corrosion resulting from seawater submersion that could present safety issues if the vehicle remained operational.

Fire safety tips for EV, hybrid or alternative fuel vehicle that are flooded during Hurricane Milton include:

• Leave all windows and/or doors open to allow any potentially flammable gases to vent from the passenger compartment.
• If the vehicle is being stored indoors, and can be moved, move it outside into an open-air location. If it cannot be moved, try to keep the storage area open and vented.
• Unplug and do not attempt to charge the vehicle.
• Disable the vehicle by chocking the wheels, placing the gearshift in park, and removing the ignition key and/or disconnecting the 12V battery.
• Avoid contact with the HV battery especially if a vehicle is showing signs of a damaged or overheating HV battery.
• Follow manufacturers recommendations for your specific vehicle.