The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) published a bulletin warning consumers of a major fire hazard associated with Lithium-ion batteries, electric vehicles, and hybrid and fuel cell vehicles, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Saltwater flooding and storm surge caused by the hurricane present a fire hazard to electric vehicles (EVs). This includes not just cars, but scooters, hoverboards, golf carts, and children's toys as well. These devices should be unplugged and kept in a safe location. If an EV or lithium-battery-powered device is to be disposed of, consumers should contact their local government to find a location for safe disposal. These devices can't be disposed of in a regular car lot or trash site. 

The Division of State Fire Marshal has so far confirmed 16 lithium-ion battery fires as a result of Hurricane Helene, with six of those caused by EVs. They believe these numbers are underreported and are gathering more data.