PIERMONT, NY – The Piermont Fire Department (PFD) responded earlier today to a reported vehicle fire involving an electric car in the area of 766 Route 9W. Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed a working fire in a Tesla vehicle, prompting an extended and coordinated firefighting effort.
PFD units 13-1001 and 13-Squad responded to the scene with 10 members. Command was established within minutes, and the crew from 13-1001 secured a nearby hydrant in front of Hawk’s Nest, deploying two 1-3/4” hose lines to attack the blaze. Simultaneously, the Squad crew stretched a 2-1/2” hose line equipped with a water curtain nozzle to cool the underside of the electric vehicle, where battery packs pose a persistent fire hazard.
Firefighters worked for approximately 3.5 hours to bring the fire under control and ensure that the remaining battery components were fully cooled. This type of vehicle fire, particularly involving high-voltage lithium-ion batteries, requires extended operations and specialized tactics due to the risk of re-ignition.
Two occupants of the vehicle were transported in stable condition to Nyack Hospital by Piermont and South Orangetown EMS.
Piermont Fire Department praised the coordinated effort of all responding members and supporting EMS crews. The incident highlights the evolving challenges of electric vehicle fires and the specialized response they require.