Light As a Brick – EV’s Are Heavier Than You Think
Vincent Bettinazzi
Saturday, June 13, 2026
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Electric vehicles are changing the landscape of emergency response and not just because of batteries and high-voltage systems. The real hidden hazard? Weight. Today’s EVs are significantly heavier than their gas-powered counterparts, and that added mass poses a serious threat to firefighter safety during stabilization and extrication. A Silverado EV, for example, can weigh nearly twice as much as the traditional model. Are your struts rated for that? Are your crews trained for it?
This course cuts through the buzz of electrification to confront the operational truths that fire departments must face now. We’ll dive into the physics and realities behind EV weight increases, show how they directly impact rescue strut performance, and explore how failure to adapt can lead to catastrophic consequences. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for evaluating current equipment, modifying stabilization tactics, and training their teams to identify, plan, and perform under the pressures of EV incidents.
Vincent Bettinazzi
Vince Bettinazzi brings nearly two decades of fire service experience to the classroom, serving with the Myrtle Beach (S.C.) Fire Department since 2007. Throughout his career, he has held key roles in operations, training, and administration, giving him a well-rounded perspective on both front-line response and organizational leadership.
Bettinazzi holds a bachelor’s degree in health education from Muskingum University and is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s prestigious Managing Officer Program. He is currently completing the Executive Fire Officer Program and is a credentialed Chief Fire Officer (CFO) through the Center for Public Safety Excellence. Vince is an active voice in the fire service community. Since 2019, he has contributed regularly to FireRescue1.com, offering insights on leadership, innovation, and firefighter safety. In 2022, he expanded his reach by co-hosting the “Beyond the Stretch” podcast, where he discusses the evolving challenges and successes of today’s fire service.
