LITTLETON, CO – A Nissan Leaf at a King Soopers parking lot became the focus of an emergency response when it began emitting smoke while plugged into a charging station. The vehicle was promptly unplugged by the owner, but the smoke persisted, prompting a swift response from local fire units.
Firefighters from Engine 11 and Hazmat 38 arrived on the scene to find the electric vehicle in a state known as “thermal runaway,” where the vehicle’s lithium-ion batteries were overheating and igniting sequentially. Initial assessments showed no active flames, but the situation required careful monitoring.
As a precaution, the nearby strip mall was evacuated due to shifting winds directing smoke toward the businesses. Fire crews set up a perimeter to safely manage the situation, using exposure protection measures to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures.
The fire department’s strategy, developed in collaboration with the EPA, involved allowing the fire to burn while controlling potential hazards. This method minimizes environmental impact by avoiding the use of water, which can mix with combustion byproducts to create toxic runoff.
Despite the challenging conditions, firefighters maintained control of the scene. The smoke rose directly into the atmosphere, reducing local air quality concerns. Eventually, the fire was subdued using a combination of water and foam to suppress vapors and manage any remaining flames.
Residents with electric vehicles were advised to adhere to manufacturer recalls and utilize reputable charging stations. In the event of smoke or other issues, owners should disconnect the vehicle and contact emergency services immediately.
Once the fire was contained, the vehicle was prepared for transport to a specialized tow yard equipped to handle electric vehicles. These facilities are designed to manage any further incidents of thermal runaway safely.
Firefighters’ gear, exposed to toxins during the operation, was sent for specialized cleaning to ensure safety and compliance with health standards. The process involves thorough decontamination and testing to determine the gear’s continued usability.