Notes for using electric vehicles safely and properly

According to the Fire Prevention, Fire Fighting and Rescue Police Department, the use of internal combustion engine vehicles (using gasoline and oil) has a significant impact on the environment and the trend of "greening" vehicles is inevitable to reduce the burden on the environment and public health. Electric vehicle technology is becoming a trend and electric vehicles are currently very popular in developed countries such as Germany, Norway, England, France, the Netherlands, China, India, etc.

In Vietnam, in big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, the number of people using electric bicycles and electric motorbikes is increasing rapidly. However, besides the conveniences that electric vehicles bring, the risk of fire and explosion from the electrical system of this vehicle is raising great concerns in the community.

Many fires caused serious consequences.

According to records, many electric vehicle fires have occurred not only in Vietnam but also around the world, causing heavy damage to people and property.

According to the investigation results, the cause mostly comes from the process of charging the battery. Common errors include:

Using poor quality batteries: Many vehicles use batteries of unknown origin, which have been repaired or have had their specifications changed compared to the manufacturer. Even installing peripheral devices that consume more power than designed (lights, horns, alarms, etc.) also increases the risk of fire and explosion.

Unsafe power converter: The connections and components in the power converter are not well insulated, making it easy for short circuits and electrical discharges to occur.

Incorrect charging: Charging for too long, charging when the battery is still hot after use, or charging in a high temperature environment, near a heat source, flammable materials, etc. can all lead to problems. Even charging while turning on the ignition can cause the charger to malfunction, not switching to maintenance charging mode, leading to overload and explosion.

External impacts: Charging in damp, poorly ventilated places, damaged wires, rats biting and losing insulation... are also potential causes of electric vehicle fires.

Warnings and recommendations from the Fire Police Department and Rescue Department

Faced with the above situation, the Fire Prevention and Fighting and Rescue Police Department (PCCC & CNCH) issued a series of recommendations to help people raise awareness and prevent the risk of fire and explosion when using electric vehicles:

1. Use only quality, inspected electric vehicles, following the manufacturer's instructions. Do not buy floating equipment of unknown origin.

2. Charge properly and safely. Use a stable power source, charge when the battery is almost empty. Wait about 20 minutes after the vehicle is in operation before starting to charge. Do not charge continuously for more than 8 hours. Avoid charging overnight or when there are no adults at home. Charge in a dry, well-ventilated place, away from flammable materials, heat sources, and heat-generating devices. Do not arbitrarily modify the vehicle design:

3. Do not change components or install additional power consuming devices if not suitable. Use only genuine and synchronized batteries, chargers.

4. For electric cars, charging must be done at licensed, qualified charging stations with appropriate fire prevention solutions. Charging stations must be fully equipped with fire fighting equipment and have a plan to handle incidents. Regularly check and maintain the electrical system and fire prevention equipment in the charging area.

Electric vehicles are an irreversible trend in the green transport development strategy. However, along with convenience and environmental friendliness, people need to raise awareness of fire safety, strictly follow the instructions of manufacturers and authorities to ensure safety for themselves, their families and the community.