Recorded webinar to be posted March 6.

The increasing use of rooftop solar panels poses new risks to firefighters.  Access to the roof to allow venting of the fire may be limited, the live current from the panels which may still produce electricity after shut-offs may shock firefighters, and the added weight of the panels on roofs may cause the roof to collapse more quickly than anticipated.   Delays created by working around these panels may ultimately mean greater damage to structures and greater danger to firefighters.  This webinar will help utilities understand potential hazards encountered by firefighters battling fires at structures with photovoltaic systems, and will help inform safer firefighting decisions.

The webinar will be presented by Robert Green, Risk Manager at Public Service Electric and Gas of New Jersey, and past Chief of the Colonia, NJ Fire Department.  This presentation is used extensively throughout New Jersey to assist firefighters in understanding the potential hazards that may be encountered with photovoltaic systems.