Springfield, IL – Illinois fire officials are reminding residents considering an electric vehicle—or already charging one at home—to take extra precautions to reduce the risk of fire and electric shock.
According to the Illinois State Fire Marshal, improper or uncertified electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment can increase the likelihood of electrical failures, fires, and shock-related injuries, particularly in residential settings.
Fire officials recommend that EV owners only use charging equipment certified and approved by the vehicle manufacturer. Using extension cords, multi-plug adapters, or unapproved devices can overload circuits and pose serious safety hazards.
The Fire Marshal’s Office also stresses the importance of professional installation. Home charging stations should be installed by a qualified electrician who can verify that the home’s electrical system is capable of handling the added load. Officials warn that older electrical panels or outdated wiring may not be suitable for EV charging without upgrades.
Additional safety guidance includes keeping charging equipment in good condition, inspecting cords regularly for damage, and storing portable chargers out of reach of children when not in use. Charging should be done in dry, well-ventilated areas, and drivers are encouraged to follow all manufacturer charging instructions.
The alert comes as electric vehicle ownership continues to grow across Illinois, with more residents installing home chargers in garages and driveways. Fire officials say most EV-related charging incidents are preventable when proper equipment and safety practices are used.
The Illinois State Fire Marshal partnered with the U.S. Fire Administration and FEMA to share the guidance, directing residents to additional safety resources available online.
For more information on electric vehicle charging safety, residents can visit usfa.fema.gov.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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