Beyond the Burn: EV & Lithium-Ion Battery Response

Lithium-ion batteries have rewritten the rules for emergency response. EVs, micro-mobility devices, and energy storage systems can transition from “routine” incidents to high-consequence events with toxic exposures, stubborn suppression challenges, extended scene times, and complex overhaul and recovery operations.

This fast-paced, scenario-driven session is designed for HazMat Officers, company officers, and responders who need practical decision-making frameworks not buzzwords. Using real-world case lessons and current best practices, we will break down the operational “why” behind lithium-ion behavior, the tactical “what” for safe response, and the command “how” for managing risk, resources, and public impact.

Attendees will learn how to size-up EV and battery incidents quickly, identify warning signs of escalation, choose effective control options (cooling, containment, isolation), integrate EMS and exposure mitigation into the plan, and confidently move from emergency operations to termination and scene turnover. The goal is simple: safer responders, protected communities, and cleaner outcomes.