PSA – Dangers of Lithium Ion Batteries

Recently, Luling VFD has responded to several structure fires where the causes were directly involving Lithium Ion Batteries. The item involved in each incident ranged from a cell phone charger, wireless speaker, scooter, and a breast pump. Based on the increase in fires related to these batteries locally, and nationally, we would like to share the following information with you. Also, the shared screenshots, from a public facebook post, are from the homeowner of a recent incident. Attached you will also find safety tip sheets with useful information.

Lithium-ion batteries have emerged as the power source of choice for a vast array of modern tools and mobility devices. From toothbrushes to smartphones, construction tools to medical devices, scooters to cars, these rechargeable power sources have transformed the way we power our homes, cities and everything in between. However, there are risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion battery fires can occur due to overheating, overcharging, physical damage, and other factors, leading to thermal runaway and potential explosions. To mitigate the risk, it's crucial to avoid overcharging, overheating, physical damage, and to use appropriate charging equipment and storage methods. Lithium batteries can also be recalled. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery recalls are often issued due to safety concerns like overheating, fire hazards, and potential for burns. These recalls typically involve specific product models or manufacturing dates and often offer consumers free replacements or refunds. Recalled batteries should be disposed of properly, often through designated recycling centers or hazardous waste facilities, not in regular trash or battery recycling bins.

• Thermal Runaway: Lithium-ion batteries can overheat and ignite, posing a fire hazard.
• Overheating: Overheating can damage the battery and lead to fires or burns.
• Manufacturing Defects: Defective cells or faulty battery management systems can cause malfunctions.
• Safety Concerns: Recalls can also be issued due to concerns about battery performance or potential risks to consumers.

How do fires from lithium-ion batteries start?
Lithium-ion battery fires happen for a variety of reasons, such as physical damage (e.g., the battery is penetrated or crushed or exposed to water), electrical damage (e.g., overcharging or using charging equipment not designed for the battery), exposure to extreme temperatures, and product defects.

What are some unique dangers of lithium-ion battery fires?
Heat, smoke, the release of toxic gases, and the potential for explosions are the dangers associated with lithium-ion battery fires.

What are some safety tips for buying, charging, storing, and using lithium-ion batteries in devices like laptops, phones, tools, and more?
• Purchase batteries that are only listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory and labeled accordingly.
• Stop charging a battery once it is full.
• Use charging equipment that is only compatible with your device. To be safe, use only the charging equipment that is supplied with your device.
• Stop using your device if the battery shows signs of damage, such as an unusual odor, excessive heat, popping sounds, swelling, or change in color.
• Have all repairs performed by a qualified professional.