What Every Homeowner Should Know About Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

When you think about the safety of your home, you might first think of locking your doors and installing a security system. However, there are hazardous items inside your home that can sometimes get overlooked: devices that use lithium-ion batteries. 

Let’s take a look at what you need to know as a homeowner to ensure your lithium-ion batteries are being stored, charged, used, and disposed of properly. 

PURCHASE THE RIGHT PRODUCT

When purchasing products that run on lithium-ion batteries, look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means the product has been tested in a lab and meets important national safety standards.

To be safe, only buy batteries from manufacturers and well-known stores. Check the packaging for information about voltage, capacity, and manufacturer information. 

FOLLOW SAFE CHARGING PRACTICES

To charge your devices safely, use the charging cord that came with the product and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Always charge your devices on a hard surface. Soft surfaces, such as beds and couches, can trap heat, which increases the risk of a fire. 

Additionally, don’t overcharge your device. If a lithium-ion battery is charged to 100% for an extended period of time, it will generate heat, which can lead to a fire. Not only that, but overcharging your battery can lessen its overall lifespan.

Once your device is fully charged, unplug it to avoid unnecessary heat generation. 

STORE LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES SAFELY

Because they are flammable, lithium-ion batteries must be stored in a cool, dry place with low humidity. That means you should avoid storing this type of battery in an attic, garage, or basement.

Keep batteries out of direct sunlight and away from other flammable materials to reduce the risk of a fire. Keeping batteries on a surface like metal or ceramic is a safe bet. Lithium-ion batteries should be stored at a 40 to 60% charge — not fully charged, but also not completely discharged — to avoid damage. 

RECYCLE USED BATTERIES

Properly recycling lithium-ion batteries is crucial for preventing fires. Lithium-ion batteries can’t be put in the trash or regular recycling bins because the solvents inside lithium-ion batteries are highly flammable.

Batteries should be recycled at a safe battery recycling location. To recycle lithium-ion batteries in Indiana, visit a participating store like Batteries Plus or use the Call2Recycle to find a recycling site near you. 

EMERGENCY RESPONSE 

To be prepared for a fire, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of a problem with lithium-ion batteries.

If you see swelling, hear hissing or popping, smell a chemical scent, or see smoke without flames, carefully move the battery or device outside if it is safe to do so.

In the event a small fire starts, evacuate people safely, then use a class D fire extinguisher and a large amount of water. While this step may surprise you, water can cool the surrounding cells and help prevent the fire from spreading. If a large fire starts, evacuate and call 911 right away, and tell them you have a lithium battery fire. 

If you have fire damage, call The Property Restoration Experts at Paul Davis of Northeast Indiana right away at 260-436-7510. Our team of Difference Makers has experience handling all types of fire-related incidents, including those caused by lithium-ion batteries. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including emergency response, damage assessment, sanitation, reconstruction, and the safe disposal of damaged materials.