23
Model Y Emergency Response Guide
6. In case of fire
Firefighting
DO NOT SUBMERGE VEHICLE TO
EXTINGUISH/COOL BATTERY FIRE
POSSIBLE BATTERY RE-IGNITION!
USE LARGE AMOUNTS OF WATER
MONITOR HV BATTERY TEMPERATURE
FOR AT LEAST 24 HOURS
USE WATER TO FIGHT A HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY FIRE. If the battery catches
fire, is exposed to high heat, or is generating heat or gases, use large amounts of
water to cool the battery. It can take between approximately 3,000-8,000 gallons
(11,356-30,283 liters) of water, applied directly to the battery, to fully extinguish
and cool down a battery fire; always establish or request additional water supply
early. If water is not immediately available, use CO2, dry chemicals, or another
typical fire-extinguishing agent to fight the fire until water is available.
NOTE:
Tesla does not recommend the use of foam on electric vehicles.
Apply water directly to the battery. If safety permits, lift or tilt the vehicle for more direct
access to the battery (see chapter 2). Water may be applied from a safe distance ONLY if a
natural opening (such as a vent or opening from a collision) already exists. Do not open the
battery for the purpose of cooling it.
Tesla does not recommend placing the vehicle in a large container full of water. The use
of a Thermal Imagery Camera or Infrared (TIC or IR) is recommended to monitor battery
temperatures during the cooling process. Continue to use water until the battery has reached
ambient temperatures or below, indicated by the thermal imagery camera. When utilizing a
thermal imaging camera, allow enough time, once the application of water has stopped, to allow
for heat within the battery to transfer to the battery enclosure.
Extinguish small fires that do not involve the high voltage battery using typical vehicle
firefighting procedures.
During fire extinguishing, do not make contact with any high voltage components. Always use
insulated tools for fire extinguishing.
Heat and flames can compromise airbag inflators, stored gas inflation cylinders,
gas struts, and other components which can result in unexpected excessive heat,
which can cause inflation cylinder explosion. Perform an adequate knock down
before entering a hot zone.