Dangers Of Solar Panels And Fire Fighters

A 300 000 square foot refrigerated warehouse in delanco n j burned down last week and the local fire chief says solar panels are partly to blame.

Dangers of solar panels and fire fighters.

There can be numerous reasons for solar panels causing a house fire. Although natural hazards such as overvoltage power surges lightning may play a significant role wrongly sized and defective equipment can also be a big culprit behind the fire. The panels themselves are also too fragile for firefighters to walk on nor would they support heavy equipment. Solar panels are everywhere from tiny squares powering roadside signs to rooftops shining with panels harvesting sunlight for electricity but they are presenting new challenges.

Unfortunately solar panels reduce the area available on the roof for vents. Solar panels may block key points and pathways that inspectors technicians and firefighters would otherwise use to mount. Solar panels and batteries contain toxic chemicals that may be released in a fire and are dangerous if inhaled. Pv modules may become slippery and pose a slip and fall risk to inspectors technicians and firefighters.

Ventilation helps reduce heat prevents fires from spreading and increases visibility.