How to Extinguish Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
Lithium-ion battery fires have unique threats, which include reignition and explosion if they are not extinguished properly. Hazardous energy may still exist even after the battery or device is shut down.
Electrolyte Spills
- Identify the chemistry involved to know the response.
- Reference any pre-plan info if available.
- Interview any knowledgeable staff.
- PPE and SCBA offer limited protection.
- Dike area around spread – clean up needs to be completed by qualified personnel.
Overheated Batteries
- Overheating can be evident by bulging or other deformities.
- Air monitoring and ventilation should be ongoing.
- If you can see the battery, monitor it with a thermal imager for changes in temperature.
- When batteries are shut off, they should cool, but it may take time. If temperatures do not go down or go up, there may be a fire.
Battery / Energy Storage System Fires
- Ensure full PPE and SCBA are being used in firefighting operations.
- Review safety data sheets or pre-plans to know battery chemistry and hazards.
- Secure the water supply.
- Evacuate the area affected by fire.
- Consider turning off HVAC but keep dedicated exhaust for energy storage systems.
- Attempt to extinguish the fire. Apply water directly to the cells, if possible, to remove heat. If direct water application isn’t possible, apply water to protect exposures.
- After the fire, monitor for flammable or toxic gases. Always monitor for pockets of stranded gas. Never attempt to overhaul a damaged energy storage system.
- Continue temperature monitoring. It may take hours or days to cool. Continue monitoring for explosive and toxic off-gassing and reignition, if possible.
