Rescuers need to know new color codes that are being used to identify electrical dangers, these are not just bright orange anymore, here are others you need to be concerned with;

Using these 8 steps for Hybrid Vehicles, you will be able to safely deal with the emergency.

1. Chock the wheels
   
2. Identify the vehicle (does it have a vent on the c-pilar, does it have a 'h' in it's name like RX400h)
3. Shift out of gear or place in park
4. Turn off and remove key (smart Keys at least 25 feet away from vehicle)
5. Ensure ready light or auto stop light is off
6. Set parking break
7. Disconnect the 12 volt battery
8. Never cut or touch the orange, blue or yellow wires or connectors.

If the ready light or run light is ON the vehicle is still operational, you must visually check this to ensure rescuers are safe. 

It should be noted that some technical manuals indicate that the key will isolate the high-voltage battery, but some vehicles have several high-voltage capacitors. Isolating the 12v battery helps isolate power from entering the high-voltage cables. Isolating the 12v battery also isolates the SRS or Airbag systems.  Note: the Honda Hybrid's airbag system is shut down by turning off the ignition key, known to be the only vehicle with this feature.

Keep in mind, auto manufacturers normally route the high-voltage cables in areas that are not normally involved with extrication, so if you are doing something unique or very complex, you must pay attention to cables on the under-side of the vehicles.  

Q1: Should you ever cut a orange, blue or yellow cable on a hybrid vehicle?

Q2: Why are we chocking the wheels of a hybrid?

Q3: What's the number 1 rule when working extrication on scene?

Link to Emergency Response Guides;

Hybrid Vehicle Emergency Response Guides 

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