NISSAN 2011 LEAF - First Responder's Guide - Manual (Page 30)

3-3.5 Li-ion Battery Damage and Fluid Leaks
If electrolyte solution leakage, or damage such as any problem with the Li-ion battery casing are observed,
first responders should attempt to neutralize the battery by applying a large volume of water to the battery
pack while wearing appropriate PPE. The neutralization process helps stabilize the thermal condition of the
battery pack but does not discharge the battery.
Li-ion Battery Electrolyte Solution Characteristics:
• Clear in color
• Sweet odor
• Similar viscosity to water
• Skin irritant
• Eye irritant – If contact with eyes, rinse with plenty of water and see a doctor immediately.
• If electrolyte leak occurs, wear appropriate solvent resistant PPE and use a dry cloth to clean up the
spilled electrolyte. Be sure to adequately ventilate the area.
• Highly flammable
• Electrolyte liquid or fumes that have come into contact with water vapors in the air will create an
oxidized substance. This substance may irritate skin and eyes. In these cases, rinse with plenty of
water and see a doctor immediately.
• Electrolyte fumes (when inhaled) can cause respiratory irritation and acute intoxication. Move to
fresh air and wash mouth with water. See a doctor immediately.
• Since the Li-ion battery is made up of many small sealed battery modules, electrolyte solution
leakage should be minimal.
NOTE:
Other fluids in the vehicle (such as washer fluid, brake fluid, coolant, etc.) are the same as
those in a conventional internal combustion vehicle.
3-3.6 Accessing the Occupants
1. Remove windows
a. Perform window removal the same as a normal vehicle.
2. Remove doors
a. The doors are removable with hand tools or basic rescue tools such as electrical/hydraulic
rescue tools. It may be easier to remove the doors by cutting door hinges.
3. Adjust steering wheel and front seat position (if necessary)
a. Steering wheel can be adjusted up/down by
pushing the lock lever down (1), moving the
steering wheel (2) and pulling the lock lever up (3)
to lock the steering wheel in place.
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