Four electric school buses caught fire - a rare event due to extensive safety measures for public vehicles
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On January 21, 2025, a fire involved four electric school buses in Wilbraham, Massachusetts. The Wilbraham Fire Department responded to the incident at approximately 1:30 a.m. at the bus storage facility located at 2043 Boston Road.
Upon arrival, firefighters found four buses fully engulfed in flames. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The fire led to delays for local schools, as the damaged buses were part of the active fleet. Reports indicate that the affected buses were electric, with charging stations visible on the property. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation; however, authorities do not currently suspect foul play.
While electric school bus fires are rare, this incident highlights the importance of stringent safety measures. According to the Electric School Bus Initiative, due to extensive safety standards, school bus fires are very rare.
Bus fires, including for school buses, accounted for only 1% of all vehicle fires in 2021, none of which involved electric school buses.
To further mitigate risks, it is recommended that school districts provide fire and safety training for operators and maintenance personnel, install fire detection systems, and ensure maintenance technicians are equipped with suitable training and personal protective equipment for handling high-voltage batteries.
Electric School Bus Initiative
As the investigation into the Wilbraham fire continues, it serves as a reminder for school districts nationwide to review and enhance their safety protocols concerning electric vehicles. Implementing comprehensive training and preventive measures can help ensure the safe operation of electric school buses, thereby maintaining the confidence of the communities they serve.
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