Delaware State Fire Marshal Message: Take CHARGE of lithium-ion battery safety

With holiday wish lists filled with the latest tech gadgets, the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office joined the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) in reminding consumers of the unique fire risks lithium-ion batteries pose and how to prevent fires through proper storage, charging and recycling.

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in household items such as personal shavers, remote-control toys, drones, laptops, handheld power tools, e-scooters and lawn equipment.

While, they said, lithium-ion battery-powered devices have many benefits, such as longer charge time and higher efficiency, they also pose unique fire risks. They store energy more densely than traditional batteries and can become unstable if damaged (punctured, swollen), improperly used (overcharged) or exposed to extreme temperatures. That instability can lead to overheating, sparking and even explosions.

“Fire departments worldwide are experiencing an increase in fire incidents, injuries and deaths involving lithium-ion battery-powered devices,” representatives said. “According to data from UL Solutions, since 2022 there have been 188 explosions and more than 3,000 fires caused by consumer products powered by lithium-ion batteries.

For people giving or receiving tech gifts this holiday season, FSRI’s Take CHARGE of Battery Safety tips outline how to properly select, care for and dispose of lithium-ion battery-powered devices:

1. Choose certified products — Prioritize safety by selecting lithium-ion battery-powered devices certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to ensure they meet important safety requirements.

2.  Handle lithium-ion battery-powered devices with care — Always follow manufacturer guidelines and use the provided charger for lithium-ion battery-powered devices. Avoid modifying batteries or chargers, and charge your devices in safe environments away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight and flammable materials. For larger devices, such as e-bikes, charge in a location that does not block the exit path from the structure, separate from sleeping areas and, ideally, outside the home. Refrain from overnight charging of large devices.

3. Always stay alert for warning signs — Regularly inspect devices for any signs of damage, such as swelling or punctures. Be aware of unusual sounds, such as hissing or popping. Watch out for excessive heat or a strange odor. White or gray wispy smoke indicates there is immediate danger of fire. If you notice any of these warning signs, immediately stop using the lithium-ion battery-powered device.

4. Recycle devices and batteries properly — Responsibly dispose of old or damaged batteries and devices by taking them to a designated battery recycling center. Never discard batteries, chargers or battery-powered devices in regular trash bins.

5. Get out quickly if there’s a fire — Know the warning signs to look and listen for and get out if you see or hear them. Follow your home fire escape plan to leave immediately, closing doors behind you as you exit, and call 911.

6. Educate others on safe practices — Help protect your friends and loved ones by sharing how they can “Take ‘CHARGE’ of Battery Safety.”

“To fully ‘Take CHARGE of Battery Safety,’” officials said, “it is crucial to see these guidelines not as individual tips, but as interconnected steps. Each measure supports and reinforces the others. Embracing and adhering to all these guidelines can significantly reduce risk and create a safer home or work environment. For more information, visit batteryfiresafety.org