The Government published the “Hong Kong Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles” for Hong Kong to achieve the goal of zero vehicular emissions before 2050. As the use of electric vehicles (EVs) becomes popular and prevalent, cases of EV-related traffic accidents and self-ignition caused by extreme overheated batteries will increase accordingly. To enhance officers’ capability in responding to EV-related traffic accidents, the Traffic Branch Headquarters (TBHQ) liaised with the Urban Search and Rescue Team (USAR) of the Fire Services Department (FSD) and established an inter-departmental liaison platform in October for continuous deliberation on the measures and equipment for handling EV-related traffic accidents. To further understand the mechanism and equipment adopted by FSD to handle EVs, TBHQ visited the training base of the Fire and Ambulance Services Academy in Tseung Kwan O on October 12. The visit not only reassured the collaboration between the Force and FSD in handling potential EV-related risks and catastrophes, but also demonstrated the frontline capability of both departments in dealing with EV-related accidents at the primary scene to safeguard the life and property of the public.

Officers of the Force and FSD handle traffic accidents involving EVs together.