Mahopac Falls Trains 1st Responders On Hybrid, EV, Lithium Incidents

MAHOPAC FALLS, NY — Mahopac Falls Volunteer Fire Department Lieut. Lou Scagnelli recently ran a series of training sessions addressing the new challenges posed by hybrid and electric vehicles and lithium-ion batteries.

"As our roadways evolve, so do the vehicles we encounter, making preparedness a top priority," MFVFD officials said.

Just being able to distinguish between hybrid and all-electric vehicles is essential knowledge for efficient emergency response.

The comprehensive training sessions covered several key areas:

• Rapid and accurate identification of these specialized vehicles.
• Effective immobilization techniques, including the critical step of cutting all power. Properly disconnecting batteries ensures safety for all responders.
• Ensuring firefighter safety during initial responses.
• Skillful assessment of the situation, considering battery location, potential hazards, and safe approach routes.

The goal was to equip responders to make sound decisions under pressure, ensuring the safety of both themselves and the community they serve.

The success of the training sessions was the result of meticulous organization and collaboration with the local community. The members of MFVFD extend their gratitude to Lieut. Scagnelli, officials said.

A special acknowledgment goes out to Jason Rivera, co-owner and instructor at North East Squad Concepts in New Haven. His expertise led the enlightening lithium-ion training, department officials said. "Furthermore, we express our appreciation to the proprietors, sales teams, and mechanical specialists at Park Ford in Mahopac and Curry Subaru in Mohegan Lake. Their support, including the provision of vehicles and expertise from their EV specialists, empowered MFVFD to better serve the community."

For those eager to make a difference, opportunities to join the Mahopac Falls Volunteer Fire Department are available.

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