South Bee County VFDs attend Lithium-Ion battery fire training | Beeville Bee-Picayune | southtexasnews.com

Oct 25, 2024

South Bee County VFDs gathered at the Tynan Volunteer Fire Department to attend a lithium-ion battery fire training. (Contributed Photo)

Chief Thomas Mengers and the Tynan Volunteer Fire Department hosted a specialized training session this past Monday for the South Bee County Fire Departments, focusing on lithium-ion battery fires and incidents involving cell phones, battery-operated tools, scooters, and electric vehicles.

The training, attended by firefighters and EMS members from Papalote, Skidmore, and Tynan fire departments, highlighted the dangers of lithium-ion batteries, which are increasingly present in everyday devices. Speakers emphasized that standard operating procedures (SOPs) for car and home fires are no longer sufficient due to the unique hazards posed by these batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries, while efficient, can overheat, catch fire, and even explode if damaged or improperly used, charged, or stored. The batteries burn quickly and at high temperatures, emit toxic smoke, and can reignite without warning days after a fire appears extinguished. In addition, water may not always prevent the batteries from continuing to burn, posing a challenge for first responders.

The session underscored the importance of adapting firefighting strategies as lithium-ion batteries become more prevalent in devices and systems that the public and first responders encounter daily. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers resources to promote the safer use of these batteries across a wide range of applications.

Chief Mengers’ initiative brought much-needed attention to these growing risks, helping to better equip local firefighters in the face of evolving fire hazards.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.

Error! There was an error processing your request.

FREE NEWSLETTER! Have the local news headlines delivered weekly so you don't miss out on updates.