FIREFIGHTING
Extinguish small fires, that do not involve the high voltage battery, using a CO2 or ABC extinguisher.
During overhaul, do not make contact with any high voltage component. Always use insulated tools for overhaul. Stored gas inflation cylinders, gas struts, and other components can BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion) in extreme temperatures. Perform an adequate “knock down” on the fire before entering the incident’s “hot zone.”
If the high voltage battery becomes involved in fire or is bent, twisted, damaged, or breached in any way, or if you suspect that the battery is heating, use large amounts of water to cool the battery. DO NOT extinguish fire with a small amount of water. Always establish or request an additional water supply.
Battery fires can take up to 24 hours to fully extinguish. Consider allowing the vehicle to burn while protecting exposures.
Use a thermal imaging camera to ensure the high voltage battery is completely cooled before leaving the incident. If a thermal imaging camera is not available, you must monitor the battery for re-ignition. Smoke indicates that the battery is still heating. Do not release the vehicle to second responders until there has been no sign of smoke from the battery for at least one hour.
Always advise second responders (law enforcement, tow personnel) that there is a risk of the battery re-igniting. After a Model S has been involved in a submersion, fire, or a collision that has compromised the high voltage battery, always store it in an open area with no exposures within 50 feet.