Battery fires have become one of the most challenging incidents for the fire service in recent years, and with the continued growth in the use and sale of battery powered devices, there has been a corresponding increase in battery fires.
Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day are powered by lithium-ion batteries. Smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, e-bikes, headphones, and even some toys are just a few examples. In fact, most everything that is rechargeable uses this type of battery.
If not used correctly, or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, please take time to look around your home. What devices do you have that are powered by these batteries? If you aren’t sure, find out.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps all of us understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires. We should ALL follow the “Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely” approach.
These are the 3 steps to Charge into Fire Safety:
Buy only safety listed products.
- When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a safety certification mark on the packaging and product from a nationally recognized testing lab, such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means that it meets important safety standards.
- Many of the products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
Charge devices safely. (All of these could cause a fire.)
- Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
- If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
- Always charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, couch, or other easily flammable soft material.
- Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
- Do not overload outlets.
- Charging devices should be plugged directly into an outlet, not power strips, extension cords, or multiplug adapters.
- Talk to your kids about safe charging practices.
Recycle batteries responsibly.
- Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire.
- Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
Other good things to know:
- You should store lithium-ion batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 32° F (0° C) or above 105° F (40°C).
- Stop using lithium-ion batteries if you notice an odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking, or odd noises.
- Store spare lithium-ion batteries away from items that can burn.
- Keep lithium-ion batteries out of direct sunlight and hot cars. This is a fire risk.
- When traveling, any items with lithium-ion batteries should be removed from checked luggage and kept with you on the plane.
- DO NOT put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycle them at your local battery recycling station.
For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.