In a tragic incident that occurred in Bengaluru, a 20-year-old woman lost her life and over 45 electric scooters were destroyed in a fire that broke out at an electric vehicle showroom on Dr Rajkumar Road in Bengaluru on Tuesday evening. The fire broke out at MY EV Store near Navrang Junction around 5:30 PM, killing a sales executive. The fire is suspected to have been caused by a short circuit in an electric scooter inside the store. Five staff members managed to escape, but Priya, a sales executive, was trapped and could not flee in time. She was fatally injured in the blaze.
Firefighters and emergency services rushed to the scene, deploying fire engines to control the flames. Concerns over the potential for explosions due to bike batteries led police to evacuate the area and establish a perimeter for safety. The fire was eventually contained, and the area was secured. Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident.
This incident highlights the growing need for robust safety measures in EV showrooms, especially with the increasing popularity of electric scooters and bikes across the nation. Electric vehicles, especially lithium-ion batteries used in most electric scooters, are highly susceptible to fires if not handled with care. Short-circuiting, overheating, or battery malfunctions can result in dangerous fires, posing significant risks not only to the vehicles but also to the showrooms and their customers. Showroom owners, staff, and customers must all be aware of the potential hazards and take steps to prevent fires. Here are few fire prevention tips in electric vehicle showrooms.
To prevent fires in electric vehicle (EV) showrooms, proper battery storage and handling is very important. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in electric scooters and bikes, are highly prone to fire if mishandled. Showrooms should designate fire-resistant areas for charging, separate from vehicle display zones, and ensure charging stations are equipped with automatic shut-off mechanisms to avoid overheating and overcharging. Temperature monitoring systems must be installed in areas where vehicles are stored or charged to mitigate combustion risks, while regular inspections of batteries for damage or swelling are crucial. Additionally, showrooms should use fire-resistant materials in their infrastructure, such as fire-retardant flooring and walls, to prevent the spread of flames. Charging cables, stations, and connectors should meet fire safety standards and be regularly maintained to prevent malfunctions.
Fire suppression systems are essential for minimizing damage in case of a fire. Installing sprinkler systems in vehicle storage and charging areas can automatically activate if temperatures rise dangerously. Dry chemical fire extinguishers should also be accessible, and staff should be trained in their use for small electrical fires.
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Employee training plays a critical role in fire prevention. Staff should be able to identify potential hazards, handle battery malfunctions, and use fire suppression equipment. Regular safety drills are necessary to ensure preparedness, and an emergency response plan should include evacuation routes and contact details for emergency services. Routine inspections and maintenance of vehicles and electrical systems are vital. Batteries should be checked regularly for signs of malfunction, and all electrical wiring, including charging stations and outlets, must be kept in proper condition to meet safety standards.
