Firefighters have had over 100 years to figure out internal combustion fires. Now, GM is helping them understand EVs.
There are plenty of outlets spreading misinformation about EVs and the likelihood they’ll catch fire. And it’s not just among the general public reading it, but first responder agencies, as well! That’s where GM comes in, further expanding the growing American EV ecosystem with a new program that hopes to set the record straight, and keep more people safe.
They’re calling it the EV First Responder Training program, and it will focus primarily on fire departments – who are often the first on the scene of major accidents – and teach best practices on how to most effectively support emergency situations involving electric vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt, GMC HUMMER EV, and the upcoming Cadillac LYRIQ (among others).
“Our primary goal is to provide key information directly to first and second responders,” said Joe McLaine, GM global product safety and systems engineer, and leader of the company’s expanded training efforts. “This training offers unique material and hands-on experiences that can help increase responders’ awareness of procedures to help maintain safety while interacting with EVs during the performance of their duties.”
GM: Firefighters Need More EV Training
For their part, it seems like most firefighter and first responder groups are welcoming the training. “The best way for the public and private vehicle fleet owners to rapidly adopt EVs is to train firefighters and emergency responders on how to handle incidents involving battery powered vehicles,” explains Andrew Klock, senior manager of education and development at the National Fire Protection Association. “The fire service has had more than 100 years to gain the knowledge needed to respond to internal combustion engine fires, and it is critical that they are now educated on EV safety.”
GM hosted successful pilot events already throughout southeast Michigan, and has plans to expand training across Michigan and Texas , followed by sessions in New York and California later this summer. First responders who are interested in receiving more instruction are invited to visit gmevfirstrespondertraining.com to learn more.
SOURCE | IMAGES: GM.
