In recent years, across the United States, there has been an uptick in public safety calls regarding lithium-ion battery safety in homes and businesses.
Lithium-ion batteries power many everyday household items, including laptops, electric vehicles, scooters, and more. Improper storage or disposal can cause the batteries to catch fire or explode.
Maynard Fire Department would like to share the following information from the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office:
Storage and Safe Use
- Always read and follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions.
- Store lithium-ion batteries and the devices they power at room temperature whenever possible. Don’t leave them in a hot car, in direct sunlight, or in freezing temperatures.
- Batteries stored near each other in the same space can be destructive. One battery overheating can set off a chain reaction where a greater overheating occurs.
- Never drop, puncture, or crush the battery.
- Store scooters and e-bikes outdoors if possible. If you must store them indoors, keep them away from doors, windows, and stairways.
- Always examine your lithium-ion batteries before storing them. Look for any irregularities in appearance or charge status.
If the Battery is Damaged
- Stop use immediately and remove it from the charger.
- Isolate from flammable materials.
- Avoid touching with bare hands.
- Stop using the battery if you notice an unusual odor, change in color or shape, leaking, or odd noises.If you can do so safely, move the device away from anything that can burn and call your local fire department.
- Keep the battery unplugged from the tool it powers when storing it long term.
- In case of contact with battery fluid, do not rub. Immediately flush with water.
Charging
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.
- Always use the manufacturer’s battery, cord, and power adapter made specifically for the device. Aftermarket and generic accessories have been linked to serious lithium-ion battery fires.
- Plug the charger directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension cord.
- Don’t leave a device unattended while charging. Disconnect the charger when the device is fully charged: do not overcharge the device.
- Charge devices on a hard, stable surface — never on a bed, couch, or pillow.
Disposal
- Even when batteries appear completely nonfunctional, that does not make them safe. Batteries can continue to hold a charge, resulting in a danger to waste management companies.
- When finished, the lithium-ion batteries should be temporarily stored in a safe transport container and then taken to a separate hazardous waste collection point. Use this locator to find a safe battery recycling location near you.
For more information, visit: Massachusetts State Fire Marshal – Lithium-Ion Battery Safety. Residents are also encouraged to contact the department’s non-emergency business line for additional questions regarding the proper storage or disposal of batteries.