Wheelers Family Auto Group Announces Sponsorship of EVsafe Training Session

Tuesday, June 27th, 2023 -- 9:01 AM

Wheelers Family Auto Group is proud to announce its sponsorship of an EVsafe training session for the Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department and other local First Responders and tow truck drivers.

The training, conducted by EVsafe, will equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively respond to EV accidents and fires. The free event is scheduled to take place on July 17, 2023 through (2) 3-hour classes from 9am-12 and from 6pm- 9pm.

Each class has a limit of 50 people and registration is first-come, first-served. Food and refreshments will be provided, sponsored by Merkel Electric and Nutz Deep II. Registration is online here.

"We would like to invite all active members of our local fire and police departments along with our local tow truck operators," said Deputy Chief Erik Jonas.

"EV training is essential to all first responders who will be involved in mitigating an accident or fire scene involving an electric vehicle. First responders need to have a working knowledge of how to disconnect the high voltage system to safely work on the vehicle."

"First responders also need to understand how these vehicles are put together and where the battery is located, this information will allow the first responder to be more efficient in mitigating an emergency scene involving an electric vehicle."

EVsafe is renowned for its expertise in training First and Second Responders on EV incident management across various states. With a mission to prepare emergency responders for electric vehicle and infrastructure emergencies, EVsafe offers comprehensive instruction in EV safety awareness, accessibility, fire suppression, and extrication techniques. The training is tailored to meet the specific needs of each department and community.

Mary Jo Wheeler-Schueller, co-owner of Wheelers Family Auto Group, which sells Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC vehicles throughout its five locations in Central Wisconsin, expressed her enthusiasm for sponsoring this vital training initiative, stating, "At Wheelers, we believe in the importance of equipping First Responders with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely respond to EV-related emergencies. We are proud to support the Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department and the surrounding departments and other area First Responders in their commitment to public safety."

She added that Wheelers plans on offering this training in all locations in which they have dealerships, including Wisconsin Rapids, Medford, and Coloma. They also recently hosted a training in Merrill.

The EVsafe training session will be conducted by a team of 2-3 qualified instructors, each possessing over 30 years of First Responder experience and advanced degrees in relevant fields.

The comprehensive and interactive presentation will cover various aspects of EVs and infrastructure, ensuring that participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. In addition, First Responders will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on electric vehicle demonstrations.

EVsafe's training options include both EV Awareness and EV Preparedness sessions. The EV Awareness training, lasting 2.5-3 hours, will cover topics such as EV and infrastructure safety, accessibility, li-on fire suppression, and basic extrication.

The engaging and interactive presentation will be delivered by professionals in the field. The EV Preparedness session, lasting 4-4.5 hours, offers a comprehensive presentation on all aspects of EV incident management, including team-based table-top simulation training that emphasizes responding to EV emergencies.

Hands-on EV demonstrations will also be provided during both training sessions. With Wheelers' sponsorship and EVsafe's expertise, the Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department and local First Responders will be well-equipped to handle EV-related emergencies with confidence and efficiency.

By supporting and promoting electric vehicle incident management, Wheelers, and EVsafe are actively contributing to the safety of the community. For more information about this training or how to set up a training in your community, contact Mary Jo Wheeler-Schueller at 715-223-7573. Registration is online here.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.