Following a recent, small fire involving a lithium-ion battery, the Snoqualmie Fire Department is reminding residents about important lithium-ion battery safety tips.
The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) is working to raise awareness about the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and ways to minimize them. Lithium-ion batteries are found in the many devices and systems we use every day, so it’s crucial to follow safety tips when buying, charging, storing, and using lithium-ion batteries to help prevent fires.
The Snoqualmie Fire Department and NFPA recommend these lithium-ion battery tips:
- Only purchase and use devices, batteries, and charging equipment that are listed by a nationally recognized testing lab and labeled accordingly.
- Use charging equipment that is only compatible with your device. To be safe, use only the charging equipment that is supplied with your device.
- Do not keep charging the device or battery after it is fully charged.
- Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is always the best option. Take the batteries to a battery recycling location or contact your local waste department for disposal instructions.
- 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.
- Only have device repairs performed by a qualified professional.
“We encourage residents to learn more about the hazards of lithium-ion batteries,” said Snoqualmie Fire Chief Mike Bailey. “By better understanding how lithium-ion battery fires start, people can take the necessary steps to minimize associated risks and safely use their electronics and other devices powered by these batteries.”
Learn more about lithium-ion battery safety at nfpa.org/lithiumionsafety.
