Charging Electric Vehicles Safely

With the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), understanding how to charge them safely is essential. Improper charging can result in electric shock or even fires, especially when using high-powered Level 2 chargers or fast-charging systems. Share the following safety tips to help protect EV owners and their families:

Get a Professional Electrical Inspection
Have a licensed electrician evaluate your home’s electrical capacity to ensure it can safely support an EV charger. They should install a dedicated circuit for the charger if one doesn't already exist. Overloaded circuits can overheat and pose serious hazards.

Use Certified Charging Equipment Only
Avoid off-brand or third-party chargers. Always use the manufacturer-supplied charger or purchase one that’s certified and recommended by the vehicle’s maker. This ensures compatibility and safety.

Never Use Extension Cords
Extension cords are not designed for the high current draw of EV charging. They can easily overheat and become fire hazards. Always plug the charger directly into a properly installed outlet.

Have the Right Fire Extinguisher on Hand
Lithium-ion battery fires require specialized extinguishers. Keep one designed for lithium-ion batteries nearby—standard ABC fire extinguishers are not effective for this type of fire.

Safe EV charging starts with proper planning, certified equipment, and the right safety tools.