Lithium-ion Battery Safety

Lithium-ion batteries are very common, supplying power to many kinds of devices, including smart phones, laptops, e-scooters and e-bikes, yard maintenance equipment, and even cars. If they are damaged or used incorrectly, they can catch fire or explode.

In early March, Snoqualmie firefighters responded to three fires in the same home.  The preliminary cause of all fires was cited as lithium-ion batteries.

Although lithium-ion caused fires are rare, they are rising in frequency across the U.S. due to the increasing number of devices and equipment powered by these batteries. There are steps residents can take when using, charging, and storing lithium-ion batteries to reduce fire risks. 

Here are some important lithium-ion battery 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.
• Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.
• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. 
• Do not charge batteries at temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C).
• Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire, at room temperature, in a fire proof container.

See Lithium-ion Battery and E-bike/E-Scooter Safety Fliers below: