Lithium-ion batteries are becoming more and more popular in supplying power to a variety of devices including laptops, cellphones, e-bikes, smoke alarms, children’s toy, and even vehicles. While the batteries provide an efficient source of power, if they are properly used they can catch fire or even explode. Monmouth Fire Assistant Chief Brian Morefield offers tips to safely use and charge devices and systems with lithium-ion batteries:
“They are amazing technology, however we have to be careful, especially when it comes time to charging these batteries. They say that it is okay to leave these batteries on the chargers full-time, but we are seeing studies out there right now that once they reach full charge, they need to be removed from the charger. They can continue generating heat. Just be careful when you are charging, just like when you plug in your phone. A lot of people like to have their phone plugged in next to them at bedtime, but I would highly recommend setting it on a nightstand or something next to you on a hard surface. Not in your bed where it can get under a pillow. We are also seeing now with the batteries, obviously in electric vehicles and other things, some electric snowblowers out there now, same thing, we just have to be cautious of those batteries and the charging process.”
When it comes to disposing of lithium-ion batteries, the National Fire Protection Association advises not throwing them in the trash, finding a proper recycling location is the best option.
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