MCFRS

MCFRS Participate in Training for Electric Vehicle Fires; Tips to Lower Risk of Fire of Electric Shock

By MCS Staff

On Monday, February 19th at approximately 10am, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) personnel from FS03 (Rockville) and FS28 (Gaithersburg) participated in a training on electric vehicle (EV) fires.

As part of , “Lithium Battery Safety 101”, MCFRS learned to use smothering fire blankets and transformer EV nozzles. FEMA has offered the following safety trip prior to 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.
    o Plug Level I EV chargers directly into an outlet designed to handle the amperage of the charging device, Never use a multi-plug 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.