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# Electric Vehicle Fire Safety

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##### In this section

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                - CRR Blog

Many residents in your community have purchased or are thinking about buying an electric vehicle (EV) but may be unaware of the risk of fire or electric shock injury related to charging EVs.

Did you know:

Charging an EV is safe when done with certified equipment.

##  Messages to share

### Before buying an EV, have a qualified electrician install:

A new, dedicated circuit for your EV charging device. Older home wiring may not be suitable for use with EV supply equipment.

Level II charging devices (if that is your preferred charging method).

### Charging EVs:

Follow manufacturer's guidelines when charging your vehicle. Check with your local dealer if you need additional information.

Purchase a charging device that is certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

Plug Level I EV chargers directly into an outlet designed to handle the amperage of the charging device. Never use a multiplug adapter or extension cord.

Install a residual current device with the charging unit. It will turn off the power if a fault is detected and help prevent a fire.

Place all charging device components out of reach of children when not in use.

Maintain the components of your charging station according to the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines. Signs of excessive wear may indicate a potential shock hazard. Never use an EV charger with obvious signs of damage.

Cover the EV charging station outlet to stop water from entering. Check the manufacturer's guidelines to make sure it is safe to charge your EV in wet conditions.

## Handouts

Customize with your logo
              -  English PDF

### More EV fire safety resources

          - Lithium-ion batteries

Page last reviewed: April 1, 2023

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