Summary
- Electric vehicles caught fire during flooding in the Bay Area due to water contact
- A Siesta Key family narrowly escaped a fire in their garage caused by a Tesla
- The fire engulfed the car in less than a minute and led to the collapse of their home
- Officials warn about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries and saltwater in electric vehicles
- Tesla advises treating a battery submerged in saltwater as though the car has been in an accident before starting it again
Article
Multiple fires in the Bay Area during Hurricane Helene have been linked to electric vehicles taking on water during flooding, including a family on Siesta Key whose Tesla ignited in their garage. The Hodges family narrowly escaped the fire, which broke out in the middle of the night. Two of their grandchildren heard a popping sound and discovered the blaze, which quickly engulfed the car in flames. The fire spread rapidly, causing significant damage to their home and forcing the family to evacuate.
The Hodges were devastated by the loss of their dream home, which they had recently moved into after a three-year renovation project. They had not anticipated that a small amount of water could cause their car to catch fire. The family stressed the importance of being aware of the dangers of lithium-ion batteries and saltwater, warning others to keep these items away from their homes and garages. The Siesta Key Fire Department helped the family evacuate, and they are now left to pick up the pieces after the devastating fire.
Officials in the Bay Area are advising the community to be cautious when it comes to electric vehicles, hybrids, golf carts, and scooters that use lithium-ion batteries, especially in contact with saltwater. These batteries pose a fire hazard and should be handled with care to prevent accidents. If a battery has been submerged in saltwater, it should be treated as though the vehicle has been in an accident and inspected before attempting to restart it. The Hodges’ experience serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of these batteries in flooded areas.
The Hodges emphasized the importance of safety and precautions when dealing with electric vehicles and lithium-ion batteries. They lost everything they had put into their home over 38 years of marriage in just a matter of minutes due to the fire caused by the Tesla in their garage. They are grateful to have survived the ordeal, despite the devastating loss of their belongings. The family’s heartbreaking experience serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with electric vehicles during natural disasters.
Tesla has not responded to inquiries about the recent fires in the Bay Area, but their website advises caution when dealing with lithium-ion batteries that have come into contact with saltwater. It is important to handle these batteries with care and ensure they are inspected before attempting to use them again. The Hodges’ story highlights the urgent need for awareness and education about the risks associated with electric vehicles in flood-prone areas. It is crucial for individuals to take precautions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In conclusion, the Hodges’ experience highlights the dangers of electric vehicles during flooding events and serves as a cautionary tale for others. It is essential for individuals to be aware of the potential risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and saltwater, especially in areas prone to flooding. By taking necessary precautions and following safety guidelines, the community can prevent similar incidents and protect themselves from potential harm. The devastating loss suffered by the Hodges underscores the importance of understanding the potential dangers of electric vehicles and taking steps to mitigate these risks.
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