24
Model Y Emergency Response Guide
Battery fires can take up to 24 hours to fully cool. After suppression and smoke has
visibly subsided, a thermal imaging camera can be used to actively measure the
temperature of the high voltage battery and monitor the trend of heating or
cooling. There must be no fire, smoke, audible popping/hissing, or heating present in the high
voltage battery for at least 45 minutes before the vehicle can be released to second responders
(such as law enforcement, vehicle transporters, etc.). The battery must be completely cooled
before releasing the vehicle to second responders or otherwise leaving the incident.
Always advise second responders that there is a risk of battery re-ignition. Second responders
should be advised to position the vehicle to drain excess water out of the vehicle by tilting or
repositioning it. This operation can assist in mitigating possible re-ignition.
During all firefighting activities, consider the vehicle energized. Always
wear full PPE including a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
WARNING
High-Voltage Battery — Fire Damage
Similar to conventional and other electric and hybrid vehicles, a burning battery
releases super-heated gases and toxic vapors. This release may include volatile
organic compounds, hydrogen gas, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, soot,
particulates containing oxides of nickel, aluminum, lithium, copper, cobalt, and
hydrogen fluoride. Responders should always protect themselves with full PPE,
including a SCBA, and take appropriate measures to protect civilians downwind
from the incident.
The high voltage battery consists of lithium-ion cells. If damaged, only a small amount of fluid
can leak.
The high voltage battery and drive unit(s) are liquid cooled with a typical glycol-based
automotive coolant. If damaged, this blue coolant can leak out of the high voltage battery.
A damaged high voltage battery can create rapid heating of the battery cells.
If you notice smoke, steam, or audible popping or hissing coming from the high
voltage battery, assume that it is heated and take appropriate action as described
above.
Due to potential re-ignition, a Model Y that has been involved in a submersion, fire, or a collision
that has compromised the high voltage battery should be stored in an open area at least 50 feet
(15 m) from any exposure.
