Battery Fire Safety

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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.

Learn how to prevent lithium-ion battery fires with this short video. Looking for more on battery safety? Visit batteryfiresafety.org for checklists, videos and more on battery safety.

What devices in my home contain lithium-ion batteries?

Avoid battery fires

Stay safe by following these lithium-ion battery safety tips:

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.
Take the manufacturer's instructions seriously.
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 don’t exceed the recommended charging time.
Do not leave batteries and devices unattended while charging.
Make sure to place batteries into the device correctly.
Avoid crushing, bending or dropping a device and charge

What to do in case of a battery fire

Helpful videos

Resources

More information

Carlsbad, CA

Why lithium-ion batteries explode

What lithium-ion battery fires can look like