On Wednesday, the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District responded to a vehicle fire that prompted a 2-alarm response in Walnut Creek.
According to Contra Costa County Fire,at approximently 5:00 pm, units responded to 2121 N. California Blvd in the City of Walnut Creek for a working vehicle fire involving a vehicle parked in an underground parking garage. PD on scene for traffic control — it was upgraded to a 2-alarm response due to the vehicle being an electric vehicle and potentially setting other vehicles on fire.
The District said it was a vehicle in a plug-in hybrid that was charging prior to the fire.
There was also a shelter in place issued for the area of N. California Blvd and Pringle Ave, Riveria Ave and Parkside Dr. — all doors and windows were recommended to be closed to prevent fumes from the incident.
6:33 pm: This is a message from the CONTRA COSTA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT. An electric vehicle fire is causing extremely hazardous smoke to emit from the Mount Diablo Plaza parking garage. The danger will be much less indoors. If you are near the Mount Diablo Plaza garage, go inside, and close all windows and doors. Turn off all heaters, air conditioners, and fans. Unless you are using your fireplace, close your fireplace dampers and vents. Cover any cracks around doors or windows with tape or damp towels. Stay off the phone unless you need to report a life-threatening emergency at your location. Remain sheltered indoors until you receive further official instructions. Electric vehicle fires can burn for long periods of time.
Update: the electric vehicle fire has since been knocked down.
Update: 8:20 pm This is a message from the CONTRA COSTA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT. An ‘All Clear’ has been issued for the shelter in place incident in the Diablo Plaza area of Walnut Creek. Feel free to resume normal activities.