Submersion

Submersion

A submerged hybrid vehicle does not have high voltage potential on the metal vehicle body, and is safe to touch.

Access Patients:
Responders can access the patient and perform normal extrication procedures. High voltage orange color coded power cables and high voltage components should never be touched, cut, or breached.

Vehicle Recovery:
If a hybrid vehicle is fully or partially submerged in water, emergency responders may not be able to determine if the vehicle has been automatically disabled. The Prius Plug-in hybrid may be handled by following these recommendations:

Perform these steps first if the charge cable assembly is connected to the vehicle.

1. Shut off the utility circuit supplying power to the charge cable assembly.
2. Disconnect the charge cable assembly connector from the vehicle. To disconnect it, push the lock release button on the top of the connector and pull it away from the vehicle.
3. Close the charge inlet door.
4. Disconnect the plug of the charge cable assembly from the electrical outlet.

WARNING:
To prevent serious injury or death, shut off the utility circuit supplying power to the charge cable assembly before disconnecting it if the CCID or charge cable assembly are submerged in water.

5. Remove the vehicle from the water
6. Drain the water from the vehicle if possible
7. Follow the immobilizing and disabling procedure.

NOTE:
If park (P) system related components are damaged due to submersion, it may not be possible to shift from park (P) to neutral (N). If this is the case, make sure to tow or move the vehicle with the front wheels off the ground.