Legislation that would direct the Washington State Patrol to study fire hazards related to electric vehicle batteries appears to be headed for the next round in Olympia. Senate Bill 5812 unanimously passed the Senate and is now scheduled for a public hearing before the House Transportation Committee on February 15th. The bill was introduced by Senator Jeff Wilson, a Republican from Longview.
Senator Wilson stated, “The worst-case scenarios are no longer just scenarios, as battery fires in electric vehicles are becoming increasingly common, which should raise our concern. I had an electric car that was recalled due to fire hazard and was not allowed to be parked under structures. We need to develop protocols for emergency responders, truck drivers, and car owners, and also address the environmental pollution caused by these fires.”
During a hearing before the Senate Transportation Committee, representatives from the fire department stated that a typical fire truck carries 500 gallons of water, but to extinguish a typical electric vehicle battery fire, 12 times more water is needed.
Senator Wilson continued, “Through my legislation, I aim to establish safety standards, best practices for emergency services, drivers, and also address the environmental pollution resulting from such fires. Electric vehicle batteries, like trick candles, can easily reignite. There have been frequent instances of electric vehicles catching fire even while being towed. We need to thoroughly examine how to handle such emergency situations.”
Senator Wilson mentioned that the Washington State Patrol will conduct the study, and towing and vehicle repair professionals will have a seat at the table.
Senator Wilson told The Center Square, “Just last year, the city of Seattle responded to 42 battery fires in electric vehicles.” Last year, Governor Jay Inslee signed a law setting a deadline of 2030, just 6 years from now, by which all newly purchased vehicles must be electrified.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why is legislation regarding electric vehicle batteries important to the Washington State Patrol?
2. Who is the author of Senate Bill 5812?
3. Why does Senator Wilson believe that battery fires in electric vehicles should raise our concern?
4. What problem does a typical electric vehicle battery fire present for the fire department?
5. What safety standards would Senator Wilson like to establish through his bill?
6. Who will conduct the study on fire hazards related to electric vehicle batteries?
7. What was the recent incident related to battery fires in electric vehicles in Seattle?
8. What is the date set in the law for electrifying vehicles in the state of Washington?
Definitions:
1. Washington State Patrol: The state police force in Washington State.
2. Electric Vehicle: A vehicle powered either fully or partially by electricity, using batteries or other sources of electric energy.
3. Fire Hazards: Potential dangers associated with explosions or the spread of fires.
4. Legislation: A legal document establishing rights, duties, and responsibilities.
Suggested Related Links:
1. Washington State Patrol
2. State of Washington
3. City of Seattle
The source of the article is from the blog regiozottegem.be