First Responder Electric Vehicle Accident Training

Prepare First Responders for Safe and Effective EV Emergency Response

As the number of hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV) continues to rise, so does the need for specialized training to ensure first responders are fully equipped to handle EV-related incidents. The First Responder Electric Vehicle Accident Training program from ZEV Tech Consulting is designed specifically for law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, and tow truck operators who are likely to encounter high-voltage vehicle emergencies. This course provides the essential knowledge and hands-on training required to handle unburned EVs safely and confidently at the scene of a crash or roadside event.

Who Should Attend?

• Police Officers and Highway Patrol
• Firefighters and Rescue Teams
• Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
• Towing and Recovery Professionals
• Municipal and County Emergency Response Agencies

Why This Training Matters

Electric vehicles can present unfamiliar and dangerous conditions to untrained responders. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, EVs can silently retain high-voltage electrical charge even after a crash, fire, or flood. Mishandling can lead to injury, electrocution, or delayed emergency response. This course ensures that your team is not only prepared but protected.

What You’ll Learn

Understanding EV Systems and Hazards

Gain a foundational overview of how hybrid, PHEV, and BEV systems operate, including battery types, high-voltage components, isolation systems, and regenerative braking. Learn to recognize and mitigate risks like thermal runaway, stranded energy, and electrical shock hazards.

Scene Safety and Initial Assessment

Learn how to approach EV accident scenes safely. We teach you how to identify the vehicle’s drivetrain, assess the scene for potential high-voltage risks, and recognize manufacturer-specific safety indicators and disconnect points.

Vehicle Shutdown Procedures

Get step-by-step training on how to safely “safe down” electric and hybrid vehicles after a collision. This includes physical power-down procedures, disconnecting 12V systems, and identifying emergency shutoff systems when available.

Fire and Submersion Scenarios

EV fires require different tactics than gasoline vehicle fires. This module covers appropriate extinguisher use, cooling procedures, and post-fire inspection guidelines. We also address how to handle water-submerged EVs without compromising responder safety.

Towing and Recovery Best Practices

Tow truck operators learn how to safely transport EVs post-collision without risking thermal events, electrical discharge, or damage to critical components. Recovery scenarios include rollovers, floods, and immobilized vehicles on roadways or embankments.

Coordination with Other Agencies

Learn how to collaborate effectively with other emergency units, including fire suppression teams and medical personnel, to ensure cohesive and efficient response strategies. We emphasize inter-agency communication, roles, and rapid response protocols.

Training Format and Duration

• Duration: 8 hours
• Format: In-person classroom & hands-on field training
• Location: Available on-site or at ZEV Tech’s certified training centers
• Materials Provided: Course manual, safety checklist templates, responder quick-reference guide

Certifications and Continuing Education

Participants will receive a Certificate of Completion. This course qualifies for continuing education credits (CEUs) where applicable, supporting compliance with state and department training requirements.

Protect Your Team and Your Community

Properly trained first responders are the front line of community safety. With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, this training is no longer optional—it’s essential. Equip your department with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively and safely to EV incidents.