The Cartagena Fire and Rescue Service is undertaking intensive training for its personnel focused on operational response to electric and hybrid vehicles. This initiative is essential as it adapts firefighting protocols to meet the challenges posed by sustainable mobility. The course aims to provide firefighters with the necessary skills to act with safety and efficiency in emergencies involving these vehicles.

The training covers critical areas, including the identification of electrical hazards, safe disconnection procedures, structural damage assessment, and fire extinguishing techniques for electrified vehicles. The collaboration with authorised dealer Toyota Labasa S.L. allowed firefighters to use a real electric vehicle for practical training, enhancing the learning experience.

Firefighters participated in real-life simulations under the guidance of a qualified technical instructor, making the training as realistic as possible. Key to the practical sessions was the use of a specialised fire blanket for electric vehicles, recently added to the Fire and Rescue Service’s equipment. This innovative tool covers the vehicle entirely and suppresses fire by limiting oxygen, significantly improving safety for both firefighters and those involved in incidents.

The training not only prepares the team for current challenges but also represents a significant advancement in emergency response capabilities associated with the growing use of electric transport.