Kinmen County Fire Bureau conducts electric vehicle fire rescue drills

The Kinmen County Fire Bureau recently conducted a joint emergency rescue drill specifically designed to address the rising risks of electric vehicle (EV) fires. As the number of EVs in Kinmen increases, authorities are focusing on the unique challenges posed by lithium battery ‘thermal runaway’ events, which are characterized by high temperatures, toxic smoke, and a high risk of reignition.

The drill, held in the Lieyu area, involved 14 firefighters and seven rescue vehicles. A primary focus was the practical application of specialized equipment, such as chassis-specific nozzles designed to inject water directly into battery modules located beneath the vehicle.

Additionally, the exercise tested a mobile water supply mechanism. Because Lieyu faces more limited access to natural and piped water sources compared to mainland Kinmen, the drill verified the ability to use water tanker relay systems to ensure a continuous and uninterrupted water supply during a major fire emergency.