Helsinki police investigate surge in vehicle fires as Finland records nearly 2,000 annual cases

Helsinki police are investigating a sharp rise in vehicle fires this year, with 20 cases already recorded in the first months of 2025, Yle reports. Nationwide, Finland sees nearly 2,000 vehicle fires annually, though only a fraction lead to criminal investigations.

Detective Inspector Jari Korkalainen of the Helsinki Police Department confirmed the increase but said no single cause has been identified. “No specific reason has emerged for the rise in cases,” Korkalainen stated. Typically, Helsinki police investigate 80–100 fire causes per year, with around 10 involving vehicles.

Technical failures—such as electrical faults, leaks, overheating, or poor maintenance—remain the most common triggers for vehicle fires, regardless of engine type. Arson and collision-related fires also occur. In internal combustion vehicles, engine and component malfunctions, including short circuits and fuel system issues, are frequent ignition sources.

Electric vehicle fires pose unique risks

While still rare, fires in electric vehicles (EVs) present distinct challenges. Thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries—caused by internal damage or external impacts—can produce highly toxic gases, including hydrogen fluoride, even in early stages. “The gas emissions from EV battery fires are far more hazardous than those from conventional fires,” said Deputy Fire Chief Antti Soila of the Central Uusimaa Rescue Department.

Extinguishing EV battery fires is also more difficult. A partially burned battery can reignite hours later, requiring a mandatory 48-hour quarantine in a controlled area to prevent spread. “Damaged cells may retain significant energy, creating a persistent reignition risk,” explained Kimmo Rytkönen, an instructor at the Emergency Services College.

Firefighters emphasize that EV fires demand stricter safety protocols due to toxic fumes. “Responding to these incidents requires heightened awareness of gas toxicity and potential reignition,” noted Fire Engineer Timo Kouki of the Eastern Uusimaa Rescue Department.

Nationally, rescue services report that vehicle fire numbers have remained stable in recent years, with around 1,800–2,000 cases annually between 2021–2025. Only a portion—ranging from under 700 to over 1,800—are logged by police for investigation. As of late April 2025, authorities have recorded 189 vehicle fires nationwide.

Experts attribute the overall stability in fire rates to improved vehicle safety, though modern cars—regardless of propulsion type—now contain more flammable materials, such as plastics and composites. Winter-related fires, often linked to block heaters or auxiliary heating systems, also contribute to annual totals.