The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium developed a suite of modern technology products to help emergency personnel respond to accidents involving hybrid and electric vehicles.
The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) has developed a suite of modern technology products to help emergency personnel respond to accidents involving hybrid and electric vehicles (yes, EVs can crash, too).
The iPhone version of the QRG app contains information
about various makes and models of electric drive vehicles.
Credit: NAFTC
Electric Drive Vehicle First Responder Safety Training encompasses a one-day workshop that teaches emergency personnel what they need to know about advanced technology vehicles, as well as the Quick Reference Guide (QRG), a handy flipbook for responders to use at the scene of an accident. The QRG describes various makes and models of EVs, with details of things like high-voltage cables, cut zones and other safety information. The QRG is also available as an iPhone app.
Robert Fisher, a firefighter from the 130th Airlift Wing of the West Virginia National Guard,
uses the QRG during a recent training. Credit:NAFTC
“Advanced electric drive vehicles are an important part of the future of transportation because they reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil and keep our air cleaner,” said NAFTC Executive Director Al Ebron. “Because more consumers are choosing electric drive vehicles, first responders must understand the differences between these and conventional, gasoline-powered vehicles. Electric drive vehicles are as safe as conventional vehicles, but they are different. The First Responder Safety Training provides emergency personnel with important information to enhance their understanding of those differences.
“Just as the electric drive vehicle technology has continued to evolve and improve, the NAFTC is dedicated to making sure our curricula and training programs are on the cutting edge as well. That is why we are releasing the mobile app version of the quick reference guide.”
Image: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety