Recommendations for vehicles with standard and alternative fuels/ engines:

Because of new technologies and energy sources, theindustryis increasingly focusingonalternativedrivesand fuels.

Theserecommendations are focused on flammablegases, liquids, combustion engines with electricmotorsand many othercombinationsmore.

Thenew technologyaffectsnotonly the type offuelandthe drive linebut often thestorageof those fuels (solids,liquid, gas, cryogenic, highpressure, ...).

Therecognitionof the different systemsisone of the challenges. Currentlythere are nolabeling and markings required(small exceptionsfor large vehicles). Also the emergency procedures arenot the same for thesesystems.

Each individualvehicle model has its own specificrescue guidelines. They can beaccessedviaspecial webpages, databases or the manufactures.

Overview possible hazards during intervention:

General tactics for all kind of vehicles on fire

Get information which kind of fuel/ engine is used

Isolate area and remove people upwind from danger zone

Wear always self-containedbreathing apparatus (SCBA)

Approach from the front and if possible from the upwind direction

Avoid taking position in the back of the car (PRD)

Start extinguishing fire from a safe distance or behind cover

Be aware of gas struts (they can be an very dangerous projectile)

Be aware of opening pressure relief devices (PRD, upto 20m gas jet-flames)

If pressure relief devises opens: take an offensive position at a safe distance (see above) and let the pressureblow off

Damaged PRD can lead to explosion of the reservoir or tank

Secure the vehicle :stop the ignition, shut off possible gas valve manually or push EMERGENCY STOP button, prevent car from moving ( chock wheels)

If necessary use ventilation/ water spray and dilute gas / air mixture

In case of fire, coolingthe systems (like gas cylinders,- tank, high voltage batteries,..)from a safe distance or behind cover

For more information use rescue guidelines or get in contact with car manufactures/ experts

Fuel leaking with no fire

Remove ignition sources

Coveranyleakingliquid fuel withfoam

Use explosion detector

If necessary use ventilation/ water spray and dilute gas / air mixture

Specific tactics LPG

Securing of wells and drain inlets: risk of accumulatinggasin deeper areas

Close the leak

Specific tactics LNG

Securing of wells and drain inlets risk of accumulating gas in deeper areas

in the first stage.
Second stage: If LNG gas warms up it will be then lighter than air

Use thermal imaging camera

Do not spray water on the safety valve

Be aware of extremely cold gas/ cryogenic

Specific tactics hydrogen/ E 100 (Ethanol)

Burns with almost colourless flame

Use thermal imaging camera

Specific tactics with hybrid,- electric cars/high voltage batteries/ super capacitors

Deactivation of the hybrid/ battery system; the voltage drops at earliest after five minutes.

In case of fire do not touch, open or cut through orange high-voltage cables or components.

The HV battery assembly cover should never be breached or removed under any circumstances including fire. Doing so may result in severe electrical burns, shock, or electrocution.

Spill of battery/ capacitor liquid: wearself-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) ,chemical resistant gloves and absorbwith chemicals binders.

Be aware: super capacitors can contain the highly toxic Acetonitrile.

Do not use small amounts of water to extinguish batteries (forming hydrogen gases) but use always large quantities of water if possible added with3% AFFF.

WARNING: There is a possibility for delayed ignition or re-ignition of a lithium-ion battery fire even after it is believed to be extinguished. This may remain an issue until the lithium-ion battery is properly handled/ managed/ conditioned by a qualified person.

Re-ignition may appear even after a few days.

More information see: CTIF Rescue and Training manual high voltage lithium-ion batteries

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