BFD Issues Warning Regarding Lithium-Ion Batteries
The Brattleboro Fire Department is issuing a warning regarding lithium-ion batteries in the wake of an accidental fire that occurred in an e-bike repair shop in New York City on June 20. The fire, which killed four and left left two in critical condition, was caused by lithium-ion batteries igniting on the first floor of a six-story building.
In addition to powering e-bikes and e-scooters, lithium-ion batteries are found in common household items, such as smartphones, laptops, vape pens, and power tools. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), when lithium-ion batteries are damaged, defective, or used incorrectly, they have the potential to overheat, ignite, or explode.
While battery fires are relatively rare, they can be particularly dangerous due to the intensity at which they burn. The NFPA has offered some best practices for consumers to consider when using products powered by lithium-ion batteries:
- 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
- Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it’s fully charged
- Keep batteries at room temperature when possible
- Do not charge devices at temperatures below 32°F or above 105°F
- Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire
- Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash – recycling is the best option
Stop using the battery if you notice these problems: odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking, or odd noises. If it is safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch fire. Call 9-1-1.