This is Fire Prevention Month, sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the emphasis this year is on fires started by lithium batteries and how to handle and use them safely. And although fires started by them are not a common thing here, between 2017 and 2022 there were more than 25,000 fires or overheating incidents nationwide.
Hall County Fire Rescue (HCFR) spokeswoman Kimberlie Ledsinger says this year her department has had one fire caused by a lithium battery malfunction. It started, she said, because a battery stayed plugged in after being fully charged. “It was also located behind a combustible material,” Ledsinger added.
Chad Payne, the Fire Marshal, for the Gainesville Fire Department (GFD) says fires traced to lithium batteries in the city are not that common either. “I have been trying to search our records and have only noted a couple of small fires with minimal damage which is a great thing,” Payne said.
“As far as education on these products we recommend the CHARGE approach.”
C-Choose certified products. When purchasing lithium-ion battery powered devices, be sure to look for products that are listed or safety certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to ensure it meets important safety requirements. Countless consumer items sold online do not meet these critical safety standards – unbeknown to consumers.
H-Handle with care lithium-ion battery powered devices with care. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Only use the charging equipment that comes with the product. Do not modify the battery or the charger in any way. Charge larger devices (such as eBikes) outside the home – and never in your exit path. Store batteries away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, exits, and anything flammable – never in your exit path.
A-Always stay alert for warning signs. Check battery-powered devices often to make sure they are working properly. Look for damage or abuse such as swelling, punctures, overheating or change in color or shape. Listen for unusual hissing or popping sounds. In addition to these warning signs, stop using lithium-ion battery powered devices if you notice a strange odor.
R-Recycle devices and batteries properly. Responsibly dispose of old or damaged batteries and devices by taking them to the nearest battery recycling center. Never discard batteries, chargers, or battery-powered devices in regular trash bins.
G-Get out quickly if there’s a fire. Know the warning signs to look and listen for and get out if you see – or hear – them. Follow your home fire escape plan to leave immediately and call 9-1-1.
E-Educate others on safe practices. Now that you know what actions to take, spread the word. Protect your friends and loved ones by sharing how they can Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety.
Ledsinger, too, had some tips associated with the care of lithium batteries “that I think will help shed some light on the subject,” she said.
- Do not use after market chargers
- Replace dropped or damaged batteries
- Stick to reputable brands that undergo third party testing and standards, such as the nationally recognized UL rating
- Allow the battery to cool after usage and store it at room temperature
- Do not leave batteries plugged in after being fully charged
- Store batteries away from flammable materials
- Keep batteries away from animals and children