From Phones to Fitness Trackers: How Lithium-Ion Batteries Can Turn into Fire Hazards

The Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries 

Lithium-ion batteries can store a large amount of energy in a relatively small space, making them a popular choice for electronic devices. They can also be recharged upwards of hundreds of times.

However, if mishandled, lithium-ion batteries can potentially overheat and may cause a fire. If a lithium-ion cell enters a self-heating state called thermal runway, the results can be extremely high temperatures, smoke, and fire. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, even after a lithium-ion battery fire has been extinguished, there is a risk of reignition.

What Devices Commonly Use Lithium-Ion Batteries? 

Not sure if you have lithium-ion batteries in your home? If you own these devices, you probably do. Here’s a list of electronics that commonly use lithium-ion batteries:

• Smartwatches
• Smart Phones
• Tablets
• Laptops
• Digital Cameras and Camcorders
• Wireless Headphones/Noise Cancelling Headphones
• Fitness Trackers
• Electric Toothbrushes
• Drones
• E-Bikes
• Cordless Power Tools
• Cordless Vacuums
• Smart Doorbells
• Solar Generators
• E-cigarettes and vaping devices

If you are unsure whether or not a device has a lithium-ion battery, start by taking a look at the packaging and labeling. Look for words like “lithium-ion” and “li-ion”. You can also check the user manual, the bottom of the device, and any printing or words around the battery.

How to Minimize the Risks of Overheating Lithium-Ion Batteries 

Here are some safety habits to keep in mind as you charge and use the devices around your home. Some of these start before you even purchase the product.

• If you are purchasing a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab such as UL, ETL, or CSA on the packaging.
• Stay up to date on product recalls, and research a product for recalls before you purchase it.
• Power down devices when not in use.
• Don’t charge devices overnight.
• Don’t charge devices through extension cords. Plug the device directly into the wall and use the charger the manufacturer provided. If you need a new power cord, purchase it through the manufacturer.
• Don’t leave devices unattended while charging.
• If you can, avoid charging devices on combustible materials like couches or beds. Instead, look for areas to charge where the device has good ventilation.
• Once your device reaches full charge, unplug it.
• Monitor batteries for changes in shape or odd noises.  
• Avoid charging your devices in hot places like direct sunlight, or inside of a hot car.
• Do not let animals, toddlers, or babies chew on devices or cords.

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore with Lithium-Ion Batteries 

Pay attention for these warning signs while your device is on or charging:

• Device is swelling, bulging, or changing shape.
• Device is becoming hotter than usual while charging.
• Device has been dropped and has cracked.
• A hissing, cracking, or popping sound coming from the battery.
• Device is emitting an unusual odor.

If you notice any of these signs, immediately unplug and power off the device if it is safe to do so. If the device is hot, use tongs to relocate the device. If you see smoke, alert emergency services as a fire may have already started.

Dispose of Lithium-Ion Batteries Properly 

Due to severe fire and explosion risks, throwing lithium-ion batteries away in your regular household trash may be illegal where you live.

Contact your city or town to see where lithium-ion batteries can be collected. Many home improvement stores also have a recycling program.  

• If it is safe to do so and the battery is not damaged, tape the ends of the battery to keep the contacts from touching objects before taking it to a collection site. Use tape that does not collect electricity, such as packing tape, duct tape, or clear tape.
• Never keep loose lithium-ion batteries together. Store each battery separately.
• Do not drop, crush, or poke batteries.

   

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This article is for general informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon or used for any particular purpose. Cross Insurance shall not be held responsible in any way for, and specifically disclaims any liability arising out of or in any way connected to, reliance on or use of any of the information contained in this article. The information contained or referenced in this article is not intended to constitute and should not be considered legal, insurance, accounting or other professional advice, nor shall it serve as a substitute for the recipient obtaining such advice. The views expressed in this article are that of its author and do not necessarily represent the views of Cross Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries and affiliates (“Cross Insurance”) or Cross Insurance’s management or shareholders.