Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common every day. While EVs are generally safe, charging equipment and lithium-ion batteries require proper use and maintenance. Following a few simple safety practices can help reduce the risk of fire and protect your home and family.

Install Charging Equipment Safely

Charging equipment should be installed correctly to ensure safe operation.

• Have Level 2 charging equipment installed by a licensed electrician.
• Use charging equipment that is listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory and approved by your vehicle manufacturer.
• Charge your vehicle from a dedicated electrical circuit designed to handle the charger.
• Never modify charging equipment or electrical connections.
• Avoid using extension cords, power strips, or adapters when charging your EV.

Inspect Before Every Charge

Before plugging in your vehicle:

• Check charging cables for cuts, cracks, exposed wires or other damage.
• Inspect the charging connector for bent pins or signs of overheating.
• Make sure the charging equipment is clean and dry.
• If charging equipment is damaged, stop using it until it has been repaired or replaced.

Charge Safely at Home

Most EV charging takes place at home. Help reduce fire risks by following these best practices.

• Charge in a well-ventilated area whenever possible.
• Keep combustible materials away from the charging area.
• Do not cover charging cables or equipment while charging.
• Keep charging cords out of walkways where they can be damaged or create a tripping hazard.
• Follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for charging times and battery care.
• Do not charge a battery that has been damaged by flooding, collision, or other impacts until it has been inspected by a qualified technician.

Know the Warning Signs

Stop charging immediately and have your vehicle inspected if you notice:

• Smoke or flames
• A strong chemical odor
• Popping or hissing sounds
• Excessive heat from the battery or charging equipment
• Swelling or visible damage to the battery
• Warning messages indicating a battery or charging system malfunction

Battery Safety

Lithium-ion batteries are designed with multiple safety features, but they should always be treated with care.

• Have battery repairs performed only by qualified technicians.
• Never attempt to disassemble or modify the battery.
• If your vehicle has been involved in a collision, have the battery system inspected before charging.
• Store your vehicle and charging equipment according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Garage Fire Safety

If you charge your EV in the garage:

• Install working smoke alarms inside your home and outside sleeping areas.
• Consider installing a heat alarm in the garage.
• Keep gasoline, propane cylinders, paints, and other flammable materials away from the charging area.
• Keep the garage free of clutter to allow easy access to exits and electrical equipment.

If an EV Fire Occurs

While EV fires are uncommon, lithium-ion battery fires can behave differently than traditional vehicle fires.

• Get everyone out of the vehicle and away from the area immediately.
• Call 911.
• Do not attempt to extinguish a large battery fire yourself.
• If it is safe to do so, move away from the vehicle and keep others at a safe distance.
• Do not re-enter a garage or building containing a burning vehicle.
• Even after flames are out, damaged lithium-ion batteries can reignite, so always allow firefighters to determine when the scene is safe.

Remember

Safe EV charging starts with the right equipment, proper installation, and routine inspections. Using manufacturer-approved charging equipment, avoiding damaged cords and extension cords, and recognizing the warning signs of battery failure can help prevent fires before they start. With a little preparation, you can charge your EV safely and confidently at home or on the road.