Safety Suggestions When Using Lithium-Ion Batteries

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

Fires from lithium-ion batteries on remote control cars, on scooters, on hoverboards have been in the news more and more lately in the White Plains NY area. There have been stories of entire houses burning down as a result of the lithium-ion battery. This morning as our technicians were dispatched to the aftermath of a house fire. A fire caused by a scooter with a lithium-ion battery. I wondered why are these fires happening? They tell us lithium-ion batteries but don’t really tell us why or how. I decided to do a little research.  

 I was truly surprised at what I found. I thought about my friends who have young kids with many of these toys. Do they know how to properly charge the battery? Do they know to remove the battery when the charging is complete? Tonight, I will of course, be making these phone calls to question them and throw them into absolute hysteria. I’m pretty sure my godson’s hoverboard will be listed for sale on social media after this conversation.    

These types of lithium-ion batteries are different then the cell phone battery that actually does not have ion in it. Still trying to think back on what my professor was trying to teach us about batteries, ions, chemical reactions, and still am drawing a blank. 

Lithium-ion batteries are so popular right now along with the devices that they are used with. They store about 150 watt hours of electricity compared to a Lead Acid Battery with stores about 25 watt hours. Way more time to ride, balance and have a blast using a device with a lithium-ion battery. 

Here are a few suggestions for safely using lithium-ion batteries  

1. Only buy batteries that are from reputable manufactures. 

1. Do not charge non-rechargeable batteries. 

1. Keep batteries away from high temperatures. 

1. Do not keep batteries on a charge is complete 

1. Never leave charging batteries unattended 

1. Use only the charger that came with the battery or a battery that is listed by the manufacturer as compatible with the battery. 

1. If possible, try to charge a battery in a fire-safe charging bag. 

1. When storing an item with a lithium-ion battery, remove the battery from the item if possible.  

1. Inspect batteries when they are first installed and after charging if possible. If you notice damage to the battery, do not recharge it. 

1. If you feel excessive heat coming from the charging device, remove the item from the power source and place it away from and combustible items until it has cooled down. If you are concerned contact your local fire department. Don’t feel like it’s nothing, they would rather come out and take a look at it then wait until the fire has already started.  

These few precautionary steps are a simple way to prevent fires and damage from lithium battery failure, and it is important to practice safety measures when dealing with lithium batteries due to their flammable nature.  

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of needing SERVPRO of White Plains’s services, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 914.684.1560 

Stay Safe!