How far must electric vehicles and hybrids be stored from exposures after a fire?

The requirement to store electric vehicles and hybrids at a distance of 50 feet from exposures after a fire is primarily due to safety concerns related to the potential hazards associated with their batteries. Electric vehicles are equipped with lithium-ion batteries, which can become unstable when damaged and pose a risk of thermal runaway, potentially leading to fires that can reignite or continue to smolder even after the initial fire is extinguished.

By maintaining a distance of 50 feet from other structures, vehicles, or flammable materials, the risk of fire spread is significantly minimized, and safety is enhanced for both emergency responders and the surrounding community. This practice adheres to fire safety protocols designed to ensure adequate clearance and reduce the likelihood of additional incidents following the initial fire. The choice of 50 feet has been determined to be a balance between practical response measures and the necessary safety margin to mitigate potential hazards related to electric vehicle fires.