Managing EV Incidents: Electric Vehicle Awareness Program for First Responders
As of June 30, 2025, New Jersey had 245,461 registered electric vehicles (EVs). With EV adoption on the rise, it is crucial for first responders to understand how to manage incidents involving EVs.
EVs are generally as safe, or often safer, than gasoline and hybrid cars for occupants, especially when considering crash performance and fire risk. However, each vehicle type presents unique safety considerations, with EVs excelling in some areas and presenting specific challenges in others.
As a result, handling EV incidents requires new knowledge and procedures.
To address this need, the New Jersey Electric Vehicle Association (NJEVA), is offering a single-session First Responder EV Awareness program. The program features a 1 hr presentation followed by 1 hr of hands-on activity with multiple EVs to locate power disconnect and other important components. The program covers:
- General introduction to electric vehicle technology
- Size Up / Initial Response
- Extraction
- Fire Suppression
- Hands-on practice with Emergency Response Guides on multiple EVs
Municipalities that participate in the program could earn 15 certification points through Sustainable Jersey under the “Make Your Town EV Friendly” Action category. Offering the Electric Vehicle First Responder Awareness Program is considered a mandatory task for this initiative.
Schedule a Free First Responder EV Awareness Session
Communities interested in hosting this valuable program can apply by scanning the QR code or visiting the link: https://form.jotform.com/250865761259164
Resources are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. For more details, email info@jerseyEVA.org