As alternative propulsion vehicles, including fully electric models, become more common on the roads, it’s important for First Responders to know how to work in and around them in the safest possible manner when responding to emergencies.
To assist in that effort, the GM Service Technical College website offers valuable materials on the topic — including new and updated First Responder Guides, Rescue Sheets and Quick Reference Sheets, including those for the 2022 Chevy Bolt EV and Bolt EUV.
Among the range of topics, the materials cover key components of GM electric vehicles, such as their high-voltage lithium-ion batteries, power cables, high-voltage disconnects, as well as how to handle thermal runaway events.
“For First Responders, being fully prepared for all types of incidents is critical,” says Mitch Petterson, OnStar Emergency Services Outreach Leader, who spent nearly three decades in the firefighting profession in Michigan, including six years as a fire chief. “Every call poses unique challenges, and electric vehicles are no different.”
Along with the electric vehicle information at the GM Service Technical College website, you’ll also find tips in the General Awareness section on dealing cautiously with air bags, safety belt pretensioners, ultra-high-strength steel, gas-loaded strut springs and other components that may affect how you handle an emergency situation involving these items.
“The information at the site is a wonderful resource for First Responders, and we’re hopeful they will take advantage of it,” Petterson notes. “It will help them be prepared and stay ahead of the curve when dealing with incidents involving electric vehicles.” Petterson adds OnStar is assisting in that effort as well. For added safety, when OnStar receives a call regarding a crash involving a GM electric vehicle, the Advisor alerts the appropriate Emergency Call Center (ECC) so First Responders can be better prepared.
Safety First
Of course, as the evolution toward alternative propulsion technology moves forward and these vehicles become increasingly prevalent on the roads, for First Responders, it is more important than ever to … be safe out there!
For future reference, bookmark the GMSTC site.
