StacheD Training
Not All BESS Are Safe: Two Fires, Two Outcomes
updated
Are electric vehicles really safer when it comes to fire risks? You’ve probably heard the widely shared claim that EVs only experience 25 fires per 100,000 vehicles sold—a statistic that seems to outshine gas and hybrid vehicles. But what if I told you that data is completely wrong?
In this video, we’ll dive into the truth behind EV fire statistics and uncover the misinformation that’s been circulating for years. From the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to global studies in South Korea and Sweden, we’ll explore the limitations of current data sources like NHTSA, NFIRS, and EV FireSafe, and explain why accurate fire incident reporting is crucial.
We’ll also discuss what’s next for fire safety reporting in the U.S., including the upcoming National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) and what it means for understanding EV fire risks. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast, a skeptic, or just curious about fire safety, this video provides the context and facts you need to know.
Let’s separate fact from fiction and uncover the real story behind EV fire data.
ntsb.gov/safety/safety-studies/Pages/HWY19SP002.aspx
data.ntsb.gov/Docket/Document/docBLOB?ID=10003553&FileExtension=pdf&FileName=5%20Electric%20Vehicle%20Fire%20Data%20Factual%2012212018-Rel.pdf
00:00 - Intro
00:38 - How Many EVs on the Road
00:50 - 25 EV Fires per 10,000 Vehicles NTSB
02:12 - National Transportation Highway Safety Administration EV Fire Data
02:54 - Highway Loss Data Institute EV Fire Data
03:27 - US Fire Administration EV Fire Data (NFIRS)
04:23 - National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) EV Fire Data
04:53 - Towing Traffic Incident Reporting System EV Fire Data
05:24 - Sweden EV Fire Study
06:17 - South Korea EV Fire Data
06:51 - EV Fire Safe Data
08:30 - Conclusion
13 reported fires and over 194,000 recalled vehicles later, Jeep’s 4xe hybrids are still catching fire. From explosions in Belgium to thermal runaway incidents in North America, we examine why software updates alone can’t fix defective battery separators—and what dealerships must do to stay prepared.
On January 16, 2025, a massive fire erupted at the Moss Landing Battery Energy Storage Facility in California, the world’s largest of its kind. This video examines the events leading up to the fire, the design flaws that allowed it to spread, and why firefighters made the decision to let it burn.
I also compare this incident to other battery storage facility disasters, like the Otay Mesa fire, and discuss what it means for the future of clean energy storage. Are outdated designs putting communities at risk? What lessons can be learned to prevent the next disaster?
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I take you behind the scenes of experiments led by the @FireSafetyResearchInstitute (FSRI), part of UL Research Institutes, evaluating the effectiveness of water suppression on electric vehicle (EV) fires. These experiments are part of FSRI’s Fire Safety of Batteries and Electric Vehicles research project. We’ll discuss everything from the experimental setup and fire suppression techniques to my own observations and insights as one of the 17 technical panel members guiding this project. This research is vital for firefighters, first responders, and anyone concerned about the safety of EVs as they become more prevalent on our roads.
fsri.org
Burning SUV: EV Fire Study - youtu.be/F_QcnzeFG98
We Burned 6 Electric Vehicles - youtu.be/2bZ7MxSiKas
Burning Electric Vehicles: FSRI Research Engineer Interview - youtu.be/cUpCdjBwz9k
A Lion Electric school bus in Huntsville, Ontario, burst into flames after students were evacuated. This incident happened on January 13, 2025 and comes just 47 days after a similar fire in Quebec. Are these buses safe? Join me as I analyze what went wrong and why immediate inspections are critical.
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On December 28, 2024, a Brightline train struck a Delray Beach Fire Rescue ladder truck, injuring 15 people, including three firefighters. This video examines what happened, the challenges of emergency response, and the lessons the fire service can learn to improve safety and communication.
nfpa.org/education-and-research/research/nfpa-research/fire-statistical-reports/firefighter-injuries-in-the-united-states
An e-bike exploded on a Toronto subway car on New Year's Eve (12/31/2023), causing chaos and raising concerns about battery safety. In this video, I discuss the incident with Deputy Chief Larry Cocco from Toronto Fire.
iafc.org/topics-and-tools/resources/resource/charged-for-life-spread-the-word-about-lithium-ion-battery-safety
Battery 101: Training for First Responders is coming to Charleston, SC on March 10th, 2025! This comprehensive program is designed to equip first responders with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely respond to incidents involving lithium-ion batteries. Participants will experience live battery fire demonstrations and view suppressant and containment solutions. They'll also engage with industry experts who will cover battery technology insights and best practices for responding to battery fires!
As lithium-ion batteries become more common in devices and vehicles, this training ensures responders are prepared to handle these unique challenges. Don't miss the chance to explore solutions that can enhance safety in your community!
From the SKIL battery recall to real-world fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, this video exposes the hidden dangers lurking in your home. Learn how to handle, store, and dispose of these powerful but risky batteries safely.
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On November 27, 2024 an electric school bus in Ascot Corner, Quebec, burst into flames shortly after its final stop of the day. Initially blamed on the diesel heater, new evidence points to a failure in the front battery module. This incident raises serious concerns about electric bus safety, especially as several school districts in Maine report issues with Lion Electric buses, including power steering failures, leaky windshields, and charging problems.
A Tesla Cybertruck explodes in Las Vegas on January 1, 2025, killing the driver and injuring seven others. This incident happened at Trump Tower in the valet area. With the FBI investigating it as a possible act of terror and reports linking the vehicle to fireworks, we dive into the facts and speculation surrounding this event.
In the early hours of November 22, 2024, a Kia EV9 charging in a Chattanooga parking structure ignited, causing smoke to engulf the building. Seven people were rescued, and five were hospitalized. This video looks at what went wrong, explores whether EVs should be allowed to charge in enclosed spaces, and highlights proactive safety measures being adopted.
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On November 29th, a shipping container explosion rocked the Port of Miami, and new details have emerged. In this update, I address what I got wrong in my initial coverage and reveal shocking new facts about the incident. Four vehicles were inside the container, including a Tesla Model S with a flooded high-voltage battery that caused the explosion. Join me as I explain how title loopholes and shipping regulations contribute to these risks.
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On December 6, 2024, a garbage truck fire in Arlington Heights, Illinois, escalated into a catastrophic explosion. Debris rained across the neighborhood, injuring a firefighter and two police officers. This video explores what caused the explosion, why it wasn’t a BLEVE, and the unique hazards first responders face with alternative fuels like compressed natural gas (CNG).
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An electric school bus burst into flames in Ascot Corner, Quebec, shortly after dropping off the last student of the day. While no one was injured, the incident raises critical questions about the safety of electric buses and the preparedness of bus drivers to handle emergencies.
Lion Electric, the manufacturer of the bus, has recently faced significant challenges, including layoffs of 400 employees and a temporary halt in operations. What happens if the company goes out of business—who will maintain these vehicles, and how will school districts manage without proper support?
This video explores the risks posed by electric bus batteries, especially during crashes or thermal runaway incidents, and highlights the urgent need for specialized training for bus drivers. Drivers are the first line of defense, and understanding how to respond in emergencies could make all the difference in protecting children’s lives.
The CSB has released its investigation update on the massive Bio-Lab fire in Conyers, Georgia. This incident caused two devastating fires, toxic smoke, and weeks of shelter-in-place orders. Learn about the causes, chemical hazards, and what’s next for fire safety regulations.
csb.gov/assets/1/6/Investigation_Update_Bio-Lab_Final_Nov2024_(005).pdf
Two devastating EV crashes in November claimed eight lives and left one critically injured. Why do these incidents often involve fires? Discover the critical flaw in some EV designs, the unique risks of lithium-ion batteries, and the truth about post-crash fires in both EVs and gas-powered vehicles. It’s time to rethink vehicle safety.
1. November 1, 2024 – Verona, Wisconsin
A 2016 Tesla Model S veered off Range Trail near Sunset Drive around 11:12 p.m., colliding with a tree and bursting into flames. All five occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. Among the victims were Michelle and Jeff Bauer of Crandon, Wisconsin, and Josh and Tammy Stahl of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. Michelle Bauer was a prominent diabetes advocate.
2. November 27, 2024 – Piedmont, California
At approximately 3:08 a.m., a Tesla Cybertruck jumped a curb, struck a cement wall, and became wedged between the wall and a tree near Hampton Road and King Avenue. The vehicle caught fire, resulting in the deaths of three recent Piedmont High School graduates: Jack Nelson, Soren Dixon, and Krysta Tsukahara. A fourth occupant, Jordan Miller, was rescued and hospitalized with severe injuries. Speeding is suspected as a contributing factor.
3. November 29, 2024 – Detroit, Michigan
Around 4:30 a.m., a Jeep traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of the Lodge Freeway near Grand River Avenue collided head-on with an SUV, causing the SUV to become engulfed in flames. The driver of the SUV was pronounced dead at the scene, while the 27-year-old female driver of the Jeep was hospitalized in critical condition.
These incidents highlight the potential risks associated with vehicle crashes, particularly concerning battery integrity and fire hazards in electric vehicles.
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An explosion rocked the Port of Miami last on November 29, 2024, reportedly involving a shipping container loaded with two electric vehicles. Could hurricane-damaged EVs be the cause? In this video, I analyze the incident, show the devastating aftermath, and explain how lithium-ion battery failures can lead to such catastrophic events.
Florida has seen a dramatic increase in lithium-ion battery incidents during hurricanes, starting with Hurricane Ian in 2022 and continuing with Helene and Milton in 2024. In this interview, I speak with Florida's Chief Rice, Director of the Division of State Fire Marshal, about the challenges posed by electric vehicles and lithium-ion batteries during severe weather events. We also discuss the state's efforts to raise awareness through their annual lithium-ion battery symposiums and how these initiatives aim to improve safety for first responders and communities.
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Chief Steffes shares valuable insights from the 2021 Morris warehouse fire incident. Inside the warehouse was about 400,000 pounds of batteries, with 124,000 pounds being lithium-ion batteries. We talk about the challenges of combating a fire involving lithium batteries and the lessons that have shaped future emergency response strategies.
response.epa.gov/site/site_profile.aspx?site_id=15259
THMG Presents: Hazard Class
Episode 0006
Battery Mythbusters
Featuring: Patrick Durham of StacheD Training
Episode Summary
In this insightful episode, we sit down with Patrick Durham, a fire captain and mechanical engineer with 15 years of experience in firefighting and EV battery safety. Patrick shares his journey from automotive R&D to spearheading fire safety training focused on electric vehicles (EVs). We explore the science behind lithium-ion batteries, their challenges, and the evolving strategies for managing EV fires. Whether you're in emergency services or just curious about the future of electric vehicles, this episode is packed with knowledge and actionable insights.
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On October 24, 2024, a massive battery fire at the Table Mountain Cableway station left 400 visitors stranded at the summit of South Africa’s iconic Table Mountain. The fire originated from a battery energy storage system designed as a backup power source. In this video, we explore what went wrong, the rescue operation involving over 75 hikers, and the critical lessons we can learn about battery storage safety.
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From truck trailers to rail containers, lithium-ion batteries have become an explosive hazard on our roadways. In this video, we’re counting down the top five most shocking explosions involving end-of-life lithium-ion batteries during shipping. I’ll break down each incident, from the conditions that triggered these dangerous events to the critical failures in packaging and labeling that put first responders—and everyone else on the road—at risk.
Throughout this countdown, you’ll learn how the lack of required placards on these trailers leaves us in the dark about the hazards inside. And at the end, I’ll introduce a new solution: the Class 10 placard, designed to address the specific risks posed by transporting end-of-life and DDR lithium-ion batteries.
Help spread the word for safer roads and support the call for change! Like, comment, and share this video, and let’s push for a safer future together.
00:00 - Introduction
01:28 - Number 5
02:18 - Number 4
03:05 - Number 3
04:43 - Number 2
05:40 - Top Explosion
06:30 - Bonus Incident
07:07 - Call To Action (New Hazmat Placard)
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Following the latest lithium-ion battery fire at the Critical Mineral Recovery facility in Fredericktown, MO, nearby rivers are now littered with dead fish, raising serious environmental concerns. This marks the third major fire in four years for Interco-owned facilities.
In this video, we dive into the details of the recent November 7, 2024, fire in Fredericktown and its impact on the community and local ecosystem. We also look back at two previous fires at Interco’s Metaltronics Recycling Warehouse in Madison, IL—the first on March 11, 2020, and the second on August 6, 2022—that resulted in extensive property damage and environmental risk. With repeat incidents and hazardous materials involved, questions are mounting about safety standards in battery recycling facilities.
Critical Mineral Recycling: response.epa.gov/site/site_profile.aspx?site_id=16642
Interco Metaltronics Recycling Warehouse Fire: chatgpt.com/c/672e3f14-1e70-8007-b76c-af81627449b5
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On June 20, 2023, a tragic fire broke out in an e-bike repair shop in New York City's Chinatown, claiming four lives—not from flames, but from the toxic smoke released by failing lithium-ion batteries. I’ll take a closer look at what made this smoke so deadly, including findings from EPA tests, and why these incidents are more dangerous than many realize. Understanding the risks could save lives.
response.epa.gov/site/site_profile.aspx?site_id=16642
The largest lithium-ion battery recycling facility, in the world just went up in flames, and explosions were caught on video. Critical Mineral Recovery was located in Fredericktown, MO. I’ll walk you through the details, share insights from experts, and discuss the big questions around safety protocols, fire containment, and the potential impact on local residents. This fire could even lead to a Superfund site designation – here’s what you need to know.
Fire on October 30, 2024
response.epa.gov/site/site_profile.aspx?site_id=16725
Summary Report: scribd.com/document/759600516/EA-320a#fullscreen&from_embed
Safety Bulletin: scribd.com/document/759602366/EA-322a#fullscreen&from_embed
This video covers the tragic Tesla crash in downtown Toronto that left four dead after the vehicle burst into flames. We also discuss a similar fatal crash in Michigan involving a Tesla and a wrong-way driver.
Learn about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries in high-speed crashes, the challenges of rescuing trapped passengers, and the risks posed by Tesla's electronic door handles and laminated windows.
Watch to understand how these incidents highlight critical safety concerns with electric vehicles.
State Farm is removing electric vehicle charging stations from its parking garages nationwide due to fire risks. But is this decision truly necessary, or is there more to the story? In this video, I’ll break down the fire hazards associated with EV charging, including why 15% of EV fires happen while vehicles are connected to chargers, and how these risks affect critical evacuation routes in parking garages. I’ll also discuss the importance of suppression systems, fire blankets, and how this decision could impact the future of EV adoption.
Why do I only talk about electric vehicle (EV) fires and not traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle fires? In this video, I’ll compare the two, showing exactly why EV fires are so challenging for firefighters. From slow-developing cabin fires to explosive EV battery failures, you'll see why dealing with electric vehicles is a whole different ballgame.
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Six months after opening, the state-of-the-art fire station in Stadtallendorf, Germany was gutted by flames from a fire truck’s lithium-ion batteries. With no fire alarm or sprinkler system, the station couldn’t be saved. Could this disaster have been prevented? I'll explore the lessons firefighters can learn to protect their own infrastructure.
A deadly explosion in a Poznań tenement house claimed the lives of two heroic firefighters and injured 11 others, including civilians. This video details the tragic incident, the risks posed by lithium-ion battery regeneration, and how unsafe practices may have contributed to this disaster. Learn what went wrong and the importance of proper fire safety protocols around lithium-ion batteries.
blazestack.com/?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Video&utm_campaign=Fall2024&utm_id=StacheD
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A truck carrying 31,000 pounds of lithium-ion batteries ignited in a crash with another semi-truck, closing U.S. 95 for hours. Learn why loose regulations on battery transport make these incidents a growing threat to public safety.
@CongresswomanTitus
After Hurricane Helene, a tragic fire in Charlotte County, Florida, claimed a man’s life. His golf cart’s lithium-ion batteries, submerged during the storm surge, ignited. In this video, I’ll explain why water-damaged batteries pose such a high risk and share crucial tips to protect your home, your electric vehicles, and your family during hurricane season. I also provide tips on how to prepare for Hurricane Milton.
Jeep has issued a major recall affecting over 154,000 Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid electric vehicles due to a serious fire risk. In this video, I break down the latest recall, explain why the previous fix was ineffective, and dive into the dangerous design flaw in the 4xe’s battery system. Watch now to learn how this could impact your vehicle and why it's crucial to take action.
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