The danger at the outlet: firefighters reveal critical time of fires with electric vehicles

The Military Fire Department of the State of Rio de Janeiro (CBMERJ) released an unprecedented survey pointing to the continuous growth of fires involving lithium batteries in electrified vehicles. The study, based on occurrences recorded between 2024 and the first quarter of 2026, tracks the growth of the electric fleet and draws attention to the risks of charging in domestic environments.

The climb in statistics is remarkable. There were 30 occurrences in 2024, jumping to 33 in 2025. In the first three months of 2026 alone, the corporation has already added 18 services. Electric micromobility dominates the scenario: motorcycles, mopeds and self-propelled vehicles lead with 36 cases in the entire period, followed by electric bicycles, with 25 records.

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The analysis reveals that 42% of the fires occurred in homes. The outbreaks are concentrated in bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens, where the charging of batteries often takes place near mattresses, sofas and curtains. This proximity to the so-called “fire load” favors the rapid spread of flames and increases the risk of intoxication, making evacuation difficult. In addition, most cases are concentrated between midnight and 6 am, indicating a relationship with prolonged charging at dawn.

The complexity of these incidents goes beyond the spread of fire. According to CBMERJ, the fight requires specialized techniques, as the batteries have a high risk of re-ignition, difficulty in cooling and intense emission of toxic smoke. While 62% of the events were initially controlled by locals, the other 38% required tactical action in places such as garages and stores.

The Secretary of Civil Defense and General Commander of the Fire Department, Colonel Tarciso Salles, emphasizes prevention. The official recommendation is to charge devices in ventilated places, with certified chargers, and avoid leaving them plugged in overnight or in areas that obstruct escape routes.