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Lithium Ion Battery Fire Safety
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| Lithium ion batteries supply power to many kinds of devices including smartphones, laptops, scooters, e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, toys, and even cars. Take care when using them. In rare cases, they can cause a fire or explosion. The problem • These batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space. • Sometimes batteries are not used the right way; batteries not designed for a specific use can be dangerous. • Like any product, a small number of these batteries are defective. They can overheat, catch fire, or explode. Safety Tips • Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. • Only use the battery that is designed for the device. • Put batteries in the device the right way. • Only use the charging cord that came with the device. • Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed or on a couch. • Keep batteries at room temperature. • Do not place batteries in direct sunlight or keep them in hot vehicles. • Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire. Signs of a Problem Stop using the battery if you notice these problems: odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking, odd noises. If it is safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch fire. Call 9-1-1. Battery Disposal — Do not put lithium ion batteries in the trash. — Recycling is always the best option. — Take them to a battery recycling location or contact your community for disposal instructions. — Do not put discarded batteries in piles. |