One critical safety concern is the risk of battery-related fires, particularly due to thermal runaway. This situation occurs when a damaged or faulty battery cell generates excessive heat, triggering a chain reaction in adjacent cells. Events like collisions, water intrusion (e.g., flooding), or internal electrical faults can initiate this process. If such an issue is not addressed quickly, an uncontrollable fire can erupt and emit toxic, flammable gases that can harm people and places in the area.

Context is important, though. EVs have a lower incidence rate of noncrash fires than internal combustion (ICE) vehicles - 1.7 vs. 2.3 claims a year per 10,000 vehicles. However, when they do occur, they burn hotter and longer and produce more toxic fumes. As fleets electrify, drivers, fleet and facility managers must consider a new set of safety protocols with this risk in mind.

Drivers should be trained to:

• Immediately exit a vehicle if overheating or smoke is detected, taking note of any dashboard fault codes or unusual popping or hissing noises, which may indicate that thermal runaway has already started.
• Move at least 50 feet away from the vehicle, ideally upwind.
• Call 911 without attempting to extinguish the fire.

After the incident, fleet managers should follow an EV-centric storage protocol that isolates the vehicle in a ventilated area for up to 48 hours in case of potential reignition.

When designing facilities for EV fleets, key considerations should include complying with evolving National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards for sprinkler design, implementing fire-rated construction, using thermal imaging for electrical checks and creating detailed emergency response plans. For underground or enclosed garages, advanced ventilation systems that automatically switch to smoke extraction mode in the event of a fire are crucial. 

As EVs become more common on American roadways, first responders have developed their own set of best practices for tackling a car crash involving an EV. In general, they will:

• Approach the vehicle from the side, in case the vehicle lurches forward or backward.
• Remove the key fob to turn off the high-voltage circuits.
• Disconnect the 12-volt battery.
• Assume the high-voltage battery is energized until proven otherwise.

First responders can use Jaws of Life and other tools to safely extract a passenger from the vehicle. Many different specialized training resources related to EVs are available to both first and second responders.

Most breakdowns are spurred by the mundane: 12-volt battery failures and flat tires. Despite having a massive high-voltage battery, EVs still use a separate 12-volt battery to control the dashboard, brake lights and other components standard across all vehicles. The heavier weight of EVs contributes to more wear on the tires. 

Due to the battery's weight and position, EVs are significantly heavier than comparable ICE vehicles. While this provides stability and reduces rollover risk due to their lower center of gravity, it also increases the kinetic energy during collisions, placing occupants of lighter vehicles at greater risk. An EV's mass exerts greater force in crashes, requiring special towing and recovery protocols.

When towing or loading onto a flatbed truck, EVs must be connected to specific anchor points unique to each make and model. Fleet managers should verify that local towing vendors are familiar with these procedures. 

In general, EV charging stations are quite safe when best practices are followed, such as:

• Contracting with a licensed electrician.
• Installing UL-certified equipment.
• Seeing that the site is level, has proper drainage and has appropriate weatherproofing enclosures.
• Maintaining routine inspections, including visual checks of hardware, regular software updates and annual comprehensive diagnostics.

Charging in the rain is safe if the plug is undamaged, connections are secure and dry internally, and the equipment is appropriately certified. Avoid charging where the EV or charger is submerged in water (e.g., flooding). Despite weatherproofing, water at or above the connector could lead to safety risks. Even though chargers are grounded and have surge protection, charging during a lightning storm is not recommended. The primary risk arises from the driver being outdoors and spending more time exposed to lightning. EVs and charging stations are no more likely to attract lightning than conventional vehicles.

Though EVs introduce new layers of complexity in fleet operations, especially regarding thermal, electrical and procedural safety, data suggests that EVs are not inherently more dangerous than ICE vehicles. The nature of risks is different, notably battery fires and greater weight.

A safe transition to EVs requires comprehensive training for drivers and emergency responders, along with strict attention to maintenance and installation standards. Robust emergency response protocols and clear communication, like well-marked signage at facilities, support safety throughout fleet operations.

The transition to electric fleets presents an opportunity to redefine safety and sustainability together. By combining thoughtful planning, awareness and safety training, fleet electrification can enhance reliability and resiliency across operations.