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Foreword
The emergency response procedure for the Tribute Hybrid vehicle is similar to those for traditional gasoline-powered vehicles with the addition of special considerations for the high-voltage electric system components. The Tribute Hybrid vehicle uses a conventional gasoline engine in addition to an electric motor to power the vehicle. The energy used to power the vehicle comes from gasoline (used by the internal combustion engine) and electricity (used by the electric motor). Gasoline is stored in a traditional fuel tank. Electricity is stored in a high-voltage battery pack. The combination of a gasoline engine and electric motor provides for improved performance (V6 performance with a 4-cylinder engine and electric motor), reduced emissions and improved fuel economy. The high-voltage system is self contained, never needing to be plugged into an electrical outlet for recharging. The system incorporates a generator that recharges the batteries during cruising and braking. For further information, the following website may be useful: http://www.fordvehicles.com/escapehybrid/technology/. The information in this guide will allow response to emergencies involving Tribute Hybrid vehicles to be as safe as with conventional vehicles. The Tribute Hybrid vehicle has been designed with many safety features for your protection. These features help provide safe access to the vehicle under various conditions. However, whenever approaching a high-voltage vehicle in a fire, rescue or recovery situation, always follow one industry standard rule:
ALWAYS ASSUME THE VEHICLE HIGH-VOLTAGE SYSTEM IS POWERED UP!
Approaching a Damaged High Voltage Vehicle
1. Follow existing training and incident commander direction.
This guide provides only supplemental information as it pertains to the Tribute Hybrid vehicle. The same rules apply when approaching any potential high voltage situation. Always follow you high voltage safety training. Some precautions to be taken in any high voltage situation include:
- Remove all jewelry, watches, necklaces, earrings; etc. Metal objects are conductors of electricity.
- Wear the necessary PPEs (high-voltage rubber gloves, face shield, insulated boots, protective raincoat or apron).
- Bring the following equipment:
- Class ABC powder-type fire extinguisher
- A non-conductive object about 1.5 meters (5 feet) long used to safely push someone away from the vehicle if they accidentally come in contact with high voltage.
2. APPROACHING A DAMAGED VEHICLE
- Disable the high-voltage electrical system using as many of the following steps as possible:
- Secure the vehicle place the shift lever into the PARK position. Remove the ignition key. Block the wheels if necessary. Removing the ignition key or turning it to the OFF position will disconnect the high-voltage system.
- If possible, place the high-voltage service disconnect switch (see section on Hybrid components for location)Disconnect Procedures into the service position. To place in the service position, turn counterclockwise and then lift out. Reinsert the disconnect switch with the arrow aligned to the service/shipping position.
SPECIAL NOTES:
- If the vehicle is on fire, use a Class ABC powder-type extinguisher to contain and smother the flames. Or, if water is used, large amounts are required (e.g., from a fire hydrant).
- If the vehicle has any exposed cables, make sure you are wearing insulated gloves and other protective clothing. Do not touch any broken or damaged orange cables. Treat severed lines as if they contain high voltage.
- If the vehicle is submerged in water, do not touch any high-voltage components or cables while extricating the occupant(s). Do not remove the vehicle until you are sure the high-voltage battery is completely discharged. A submerged high-voltage battery may produce a fizzing or bubbling reaction. The high-voltage battery will be discharged when the fizzing or bubbling has completely stopped.
3. IF THE HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY CASE HAS BEEN RUPTURED
- Just like any other battery, hose the area down with large amounts of water.
4. MOVING DAMAGED VEHICLES FOR WRECKER DRIVERS
- Turn the vehicle ignition key to the ACCESSORY position to release the locking steering wheel.
- If possible, remove the high-voltage service disconnect switch by turning it counterclockwise and lifting out. Reinstall in the service/shipping position.
- Follow the guidelines in the Wrecker Towing Manual.
- Front Tow: Wheel Lift with Dolly for 4WD and No Dolly for FWD
- Rear Tow: Wheel Lift with Dolly for All (FWD or 4WD)
- Flat bed: Front and Rear
5. SPECIAL NOTE TO SALVAGE YARDS
- If a vehicle with a high-voltage battery is to be scrapped, the high-voltage battery must be disposed of following all local, state/provincial and federal guidelines.