Battery Fire Safety

 

Lithium-ion batteries have become a national issue of concern. Fire Departments across the country have seen an increase in serious fires caused by charging E-bikes, electric scooters, cell phones, computers, tablets, gaming devices and power tools. When batteries overheat, they can catch fire and even explode. The fires they spark also release toxic gases.

Avoid battery fires

• Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory (such as UL or Interek).
• Avoid purchasing after-market batteries and charging devices that are not listed or made for the device.
• Don’t exceed the recommended charging time, and don’t keep charging the battery after it is fully charged.
• Stop using the lithium-ion battery if you notice an odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking or odd noises.
• Store e-bikes, e-scooters and batteries outside of your living space and away from exit doors and anything that can get hot or catch fire.
• Only use the battery and the charger that was designed for and came with the device.
• Only charge devices on hard surfaces, not soft surfaces, and do nOt exceed the recommended charging time.
• Do not leave batteries and devices unattended while charging.
• Avoid crushing, bending or dropping a device and charge

 

What to do in case of a battery fire

        If you observe a lithium-ion battery fire, leave the area, close the door, and call 9-1-1 immediately.

 

Resources

https://www.nfpa.org/downloadable-resources/safety-tip-sheets/lithium-ion-battery-safety-for-consumers-tip-sheet?l=0

 

Helpful videos

 

Why lithium-ion batteries explode

• Lithium-ion batteries: why they explode – University of Michigan Engineering

What lithium-ion battery fires can look like

• Electric scooter explodes during charging
• Electric Scooter Fire inside room