City of Long Beach Advises Electrical Vehicle Users About Potential Hazards from Saltwater Exposure

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PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA - As the City of Long Beach continues to prepare for the upcoming wet weather and forecasted El Niño season, the City is proactively advising electric vehicle (EV) users of the potential safety concerns that can arise if an EV is exposed to saltwater.

Most EVs, including vehicles like cars, vans and buses, as well as e-bikes, scooters and golf carts, in use today are powered by lithium-ion batteries. When EV batteries are exposed to saltwater, salt bridges can form within the battery pack and can cause the battery to self-heat, which can result in fire or explosions.

To avoid the risk of saltwater exposure, EV owners located in areas prone to coastal flooding should proactively move their vehicles away from potential exposure areas before a storm hits. People should not drive any type of EV through flooded saltwater areas.

If an EV was partially submerged, or floodwater may have reached its battery or electrical components:

• Do not drive, charge or operate it, even if it appears to operate normally.
• If connected to a charger when exposure occurs, disconnect from charger.
• Be alert for signs of damaged batteries such as sounds of hissing and popping, bubbling or gurgling noises, unusual odors, heat and smoke. If these are noticed, move away immediately and call 911. Do not attempt to move the vehicle or extinguish the fire yourself.
• Arrange for professional towing and tell the towing provider about the suspected saltwater exposure. Ensure the EV is moved away from the garage, residence or any flammable structure.
• Call 9-1-1 in the event of emergency, including observances of smoke, fire or explosion. Make sure to share that you expect the EV has been exposed to saltwater.

During Tropical Storm Rachel the public is encouraged to visit the City's Emergency page for the latest information about City response efforts. The public is also encouraged to sign up for Alert Long Beach text and email notification system.

Media inquiries may be directed to the City's Joint Information Center at [email protected].

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