As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common, a new study warns of serious health risks for firefighters, vehicle owners, and communities when EVs catch fire. Researchers at the University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center found that EV fires release toxic heavy metals, which can increase the risk of cancer and other health issues.
Why EV Fires Are More Dangerous
All fires pose risks, but EV fires are especially hazardous due to the large batteries they use. These batteries contain high concentrations of heavy metals, many of which are linked to cancer.
Dr. Alberto Caban-Martinez, deputy director of the Firefighter Cancer Initiative (FCI) at Sylvester, explained, “EV fires expose firefighters and nearby residents to harmful metals that can damage DNA, cause oxidative stress, and lead to genetic mutations.”
The metals found in EV batteries include:
- Arsenic – Linked to lung, bladder, skin, liver, and kidney cancers
- Cadmium – Linked to lung, prostate, kidney, pancreatic, and breast cancers
- Chromium – Linked to lung, nasal, and sinus cancers
- Nickel – Linked to lung, nasal, and laryngeal cancers
- Lead – Linked to brain, kidney, stomach, and lung cancers
Firefighters are already at higher risk of cancer due to exposure to hazardous materials. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, firefighters face a 9% higher risk of developing cancer and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer than the general population.
Controlled EV Fire Reveals Major Risks
As part of the first case study on EV fires, researchers staged a controlled EV fire to study the air and environmental contamination. Their findings showed that:
- EV battery fires burn much hotter than regular car fires.
- Exploding EV batteries can send debris flying up to 40 feet.
- It takes up to 30,000 gallons of water to extinguish an EV fire—compared to just 750 gallons for a traditional gasoline car fire.
- Toxic chemicals, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), were found in the ground near the burned vehicle, increasing environmental contamination.
The Need for Stronger Safety Measures
The researchers emphasized that proper decontamination is essential after EV fires to protect firefighters and communities from toxic exposure. They also stressed the importance of continued research and collaboration to reduce cancer risks for firefighters.
Dr. Erin Kobetz, director of the Firefighter Cancer Initiative, highlighted the importance of working with firefighters to find practical solutions. “Firefighters bring real-world expertise, and we bring scientific and medical knowledge. This partnership is saving lives and will continue to do so,” she said.
As EVs become more popular, understanding how to safely manage EV fires is crucial. More research and updated safety protocols can help protect firefighters and communities from long-term health risks associated with toxic exposure.
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