BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Brevard County Fire Rescue shared safety precautions for electric and hybrid vehicles exposed to floodwaters, noting that their lithium-ion batteries can catch fire hours, days or even weeks after being submerged. The agency advised owners not to start, drive or charge a vehicle that has been submerged.
What EV owners should do after floodwater exposure
The precautions also apply to e-bikes, electric scooters, golf carts and other lithium-ion battery-powered equipment that has been submerged. If a home or business battery energy storage system was submerged, residents should shut off power to the unit and contact the manufacturer.
Brevard County Fire Rescue advised keeping people away from submerged vehicles and, if safely possible, storing them outdoors at least 50 feet from buildings and other combustible materials.
Signs of a possible lithium-ion battery fire
The department also cautioned against attempting to access the battery. “Do not open the battery pack or remove service disconnects,” Brevard County Fire Rescue said.
Vehicle owners should tell tow operators that a vehicle was submerged so it can be handled safely. Brevard County Fire Rescue advised calling 911 if there is smoke, sparks, flames, leaking fluids, unusual odors or gurgling sounds.
Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
©2026 Cox Media Group
