Lithium-ion battery fires could pose a significant safety risk to first responders. Hear what today’s witness had to say about the research being conducted to determine the potential health risks associated with these hazardous fires Fast clip below
New York City’s Chief Fire Marshal, Daniel Flynn, recently testified before the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology, urging House lawmakers to pass legislation mandating safety standards for lithium-ion batteries. Flynn emphasized the urgency of the matter, highlighting that fires caused by these batteries are not only more intense but also more dangerous than traditional fires.
According to Flynn, lithium-ion battery fires create instantly hazardous conditions, making it challenging for people to escape to safety. These fires undergo a series of explosions, releasing highly toxic gases and projecting flaming cells that can travel significant distances, increasing the risk of fire spread. The chief fire marshal stressed that escape becomes particularly difficult during nighttime incidents when occupants are sleeping.
In 2023, New York City witnessed 268 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, resulting in 18 fatalities and 150 injuries. Flynn pointed out that these fires demand large volumes of water to suppress and can reignite spontaneously, posing significant challenges for firefighters.
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