Dangers of Lithium-Ion Batteries & Fire Safety Tips

Safety Tips & Precautions

Fires caused by lithium-ion batteries can be a major fire hazard with deadly consequences. These rechargeable batteries can be found in electric bikes and scooters, cars, laptops, tablets, phones, and common household devices. Lithium-ion battery fires have caused deaths, serious injuries, and devastating damage to property around the city.

Always:

  • Purchase and use devices certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratory).
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage.
  • Use the correct battery, cord, and power adapter.
  • Plug directly into a wall electrical outlet for charging.
  • Keep batteries and devices at room temperature.
  • Store and/or charge batteries away from anything flammable.
  • Keep away from heat sources.
  • Dispose of batteries in a safe manner.

Never:

  • Use aftermarket (or generic) batteries or chargers.
  • Plug into a power strip or overload an outlet.
  • Overcharge or leave battery charging overnight.
  • Charge a battery or device under your pillow, on your bed, or near a couch.
  • Leave e-bikes or e-scooters unattended while charging.
  • Block your primary way in or out of a room/space.
  • Place batteries in Trash or Recycling bin. It is illegal.

Fires & Emergencies

FACT: Fire extinguishers do not work on lithium-ion battery fires.

Damaged or unstable batteries and improper charging, storage, or disposal can cause the batteries to overheat, leading to an explosive, aggressive fire that spreads rapidly, can reignite, and is challenging to extinguish.

Lithium-ion battery fires are very dangerous. Water may not prevent a battery from burning or spreading. Battery cells are known to explode and quickly spread to another battery. It can spread to other devices as well.

These batteries may continue to generate heat even when there is no visible sign of fire. Once heat reaches a certain level, fire may ignite on the battery and surrounding area.

Fire extinguishers do not work on lithium-ion battery fires. If you observe a lithium-ion battery fire, leave the area, CLOSE the door, and call 911 immediately.

Reignition of lithium-ion batteries is common. Lithium-ion batteries are known to unexpectedly re-ignite (without warning) minutes, hours, and even days after all visible fire has been put out.

Lithium-ion batteries can enter an uncontrollable, self-heating state. This can result in the release of gas, cause fire, and possible explosion.

Where Can I Recycle These Batteries?

Batteries Plus

5073 S. COULTER
3301 I-40 WEST

  • PLEASE CALL FIRST
  • TAKES LARGER BATTERIES
  • CHARGE TO RECYCLE
  • MUST BE PACKAGED
  • INDIVIDUALLY IN A BAG

Lowe’s

6401 LOWES LANE
5000 S. COULTER

  • NOT LEAKING
  • NO CHARGE
  • POWER TOOL OR
  • SMALLER ONLY

Home Depot

2401 S. GEORGIA
2500 S. SONCY

  • NOT LEAKING
  • NO CHARGE
  • POWER TOOL OR
  • SMALLER ONLY