The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released a free series of resources, guidelines, and information to help raise awareness about electric vehicle (EV) fires and safe EV charging practices at home. Resources include a free training course to help the public address some of the common concerns and myths about owning an EV. Some safety tips from NFPA include:

• Use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Read and follow all manufacturer directions.
• Check chargers and cords for damage before using.
• Never use chargers or cords if damaged.
• Do not use extension cords with the charger.

“It is widely known that electric vehicles provide environmental and cost-effective benefits,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at NFPA. “However, as fires involving EVs are reported in the news, concerns about the risks they pose persist. Through advocacy efforts that highlight our new online resources and information, NFPA is working to better educate the public about the risks associated with EVs and other devices that use lithium-ion batteries, along with ways to use them safely.”

Access NFPA’s new resources on electric vehicle fire safety, find training information, and download the free safety tip sheet at nfpa.org/evsafetyinfo.