Over 100 Firefighters Engage in Hazardous Response Effort at General Motors Pasadena Facility

October 23, 2023

Pasadena GM Design Center Engulfed in Flames; Lithium-Ion Battery Complicates Fight

Pasadena, California – A large-scale fire erupted Wednesday evening at a General Motors design studio, prompting a massive response from over 100 firefighters and a specialized hazardous materials team. The blaze, reported at approximately 5:50 p.m. in the 600 block of sierra Madre Villa Avenue, quickly escalated to a four-alarm incident, signifying the scope of the emergency and the resources required to contain it.

firefighters Confront Unique Challenges

The primary difficulty in suppressing the fire stemmed from the presence of lithium-ion batteries and prototype automobiles within the 149,000-square-foot facility. According to Pasadena Fire Department spokesperson Lisa Derderian, traditional firefighting methods, specifically the use of water, were deliberately avoided due to the potential for a perilous chemical reaction that could exacerbate the blaze and increase the risk of explosions.

“this is one of the largest structure fires we’ve had in Pasadena in many years,” Derderian stated. “Firefighters on scene have trained for scenarios like this, but it certainly presents a unique set of challenges.”

Dramatic Rescue Amidst the Inferno

The situation intensified when a firefighter became trapped inside the burning building, triggering a “mayday” call. Fortunately, rescue crews located the firefighter and successfully extracted them without any reported injuries. “He did not wish to be transported to a hospital,but it was a very frightening few minutes until his safety was confirmed,” derderian added.

Inquiry Underway; Cause Remains Unknown

While preliminary assessments suggest that lithium-ion batteries and concept cars were involved in fueling the fire, the precise cause remains under investigation. Reports indicate that some of the vehicles damaged by the flames were gasoline-powered, adding another layer of complexity to the incident. Fire crews remained on-site overnight, diligently working to manage the hazardous materials and ensure the complete extinguishment of the fire.

General Motors invested over $71 million in 2021 to establish the facility as its advanced Design Center. The extended duration required to safely manage lithium-ion battery fires – often spanning several hours or even days – highlights the evolving challenges faced by emergency responders in an era increasingly reliant on this technology.

Hear’s a breakdown of lithium-ion battery fire risks:

Risk Factor	Description	Mitigation Strategy
Thermal Runaway	Overheating can trigger a chain reaction,causing fires or explosions.	Advanced battery management systems,thermal shielding.
Difficult extinguishment	Water can exacerbate the blaze; specialized agents are needed.	Use of Class D fire extinguishers, specialized foams.
Toxic Gas Release	Burning lithium-ion batteries emit hazardous fumes.	Respiratory protection for firefighters, proper ventilation.

Did you know that the number of electric vehicles on the road in the US has increased by over 40% in the past year, raising concerns about fire response readiness?

Pro Tip: Always follow manufacturer guidelines for the safe handling and disposal of lithium-ion batteries to minimize the risk of fire hazards.

Understanding the Risks of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

Lithium-ion batteries, while powering much of our modern technology, present unique fire safety challenges. Unlike traditional fires, lithium-ion battery fires can reignite even after appearing to be extinguished due to internal chemical reactions. This underscores the importance of specialized training for firefighters and the advancement of advanced fire suppression techniques.

The increasing prevalence of electric vehicles and energy storage systems means that these types of fires are likely to become more common. Investment in research and development of safer battery technologies,as well as improved fire safety protocols,are crucial to mitigating these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lithium-Ion Battery fires

What makes lithium-ion battery fires so difficult to extinguish?

Thay involve a complex chemical reaction that can continue even after the flames are put out, leading to reignition.

Is water safe to use on a lithium-ion battery fire?

No, water can actually worsen the fire by causing a dangerous chemical reaction.

What type of fire extinguisher is best for a lithium-ion battery fire?

Class D fire extinguishers, specifically designed for metal fires, are the most effective.

How long can it take to fully extinguish a lithium-ion battery fire?

It can take several hours or even days to ensure the fire is completely extinguished and there is no risk of reignition.

what is “thermal runaway” in a lithium-ion battery?

Thermal runaway is a chain reaction within the battery that causes it to overheat and possibly catch fire.

Are electric vehicles more prone to fires than gasoline-powered cars?

While EV fires receive more attention, studies suggest the overall fire *incidence* rate is comparable, but EV fires are harder to control.

What are your thoughts on the challenges faced by firefighters battling lithium-ion battery fires? do you believe manufacturers should be required to implement more stringent safety measures? Share your opinions in the comments below!

What proactive measures can General Motors implement to enhance fire risk assessment and prevention at its facilities?

Pasadena Commercial Fire: A Rapidly Evolving Situation

A massive four-alarm commercial fire erupted at the General Motors design studio in Pasadena, California, on October 22, 2025, drawing a notable response from local fire departments. As of the latest reports, over 60 firefighters were actively battling the blaze, with a HazMat team also on scene due to potential hazardous materials involved. The incident underscores the complexities of industrial fire safety and the importance of swift, coordinated emergency response.

Initial Response and Scale of the incident

The first reports of the fire came in late yesterday, quickly escalating to a four-alarm incident, signifying the need for significant resources. This level of response indicates a large-scale fire with potential for significant damage and spread.

* Fire Department Deployment: At least 60 firefighters from multiple companies were dispatched to the scene.

* HazMat Assessment: The presence of a HazMat team suggests concerns about chemicals, paints, plastics, or other materials commonly found in automotive design and manufacturing facilities. Hazardous materials response protocols are crucial in these situations.

* Location Specifics: The fire is centered at the General Motors design studio in Pasadena, a key location for automotive innovation and design.

Potential Hazards and Firefighting Challenges

Fires in commercial and industrial settings, notably those involving automotive facilities, present unique challenges for firefighters.

* Flammable Materials: Automotive design studios often contain large quantities of flammable materials like paints, solvents, plastics, and upholstery.

* Structural Integrity: Large commercial buildings can pose structural risks during a fire, requiring careful assessment and tactical firefighting approaches. Commercial fire suppression requires specialized training and equipment.

* Complex Layouts: The internal layout of design studios and manufacturing facilities can be complex, hindering access and increasing the difficulty of locating and extinguishing the fire.

* Smoke Inhalation: Heavy smoke production is a major concern, necessitating the use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and careful monitoring of air quality. Firefighter safety is paramount.

Impact on Local Operations & Surrounding Areas

The fire has caused disruptions to local traffic and potentially impacted nearby businesses. Authorities have established a perimeter around the General motors facility.

* Traffic Diversions: Road closures are in effect around the affected area, causing traffic congestion.

* Air quality Concerns: Smoke from the fire may impact air quality in surrounding neighborhoods. Residents are advised to stay indoors and close windows.

* Business Interruption: The fire will undoubtedly disrupt operations at the General Motors design studio and potentially affect related businesses in the Pasadena area. Business continuity planning is essential for mitigating such disruptions.

Understanding Four-Alarm Fires & Response Levels

The designation of a “four-alarm fire” isn’t arbitrary. It signifies a rapidly escalating situation demanding a significant commitment of resources.

1. First Alarm: Initial response with a standard number of fire engines and personnel.
2. Second Alarm: Called when the initial response is insufficient to control the fire,bringing in additional units.
3. Third Alarm: Indicates a large-scale fire requiring a substantial increase in resources,including specialized units.
4. Fourth Alarm: Signals a major incident demanding a massive response,often involving mutual aid from neighboring fire departments. Mutual aid agreements are vital for effective emergency response.

The Role of HazMat Teams in Industrial Fires

the involvement of a HazMat team highlights the potential for hazardous materials to be present at the scene. Their role is critical in:

* Identifying Hazardous Substances: Determining the types of chemicals and materials involved in the fire.

* Containment and Mitigation: Preventing the spread of hazardous materials and minimizing environmental impact.

* Protecting Firefighters: Ensuring the safety of firefighters by providing guidance on handling and avoiding exposure to hazardous substances.Chemical spill response is a key component of their expertise.

Long-Term Implications & Examination

once the fire is extinguished, a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the cause and origin of the blaze. This investigation will likely involve:

* Fire Investigation Units: Specialized teams will analyze the scene to identify potential ignition sources and contributing factors.

* Insurance assessments: Insurance companies will assess the damage and determine coverage.

* Safety Reviews: General Motors will likely conduct a thorough review of its fire safety protocols and procedures. Fire risk assessment is a proactive measure to prevent future incidents.

Source: https://mynewsla.com/business/2025/10/22/firefighters-battling-pasadena-four-alarm-commercial-fire/