Power smart: Keep your lithium-ion batteries safe

Laptops, and smartphones, and hoverboards, oh my! Lithium-ion batteries supply power to many of our devices, but they can potentially be a fire hazard. Here are some easy tips to minimize their risks.

As our reliance on technology grows, so does the prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in devices such as smartphones, tablets, and e-bikes. While these batteries power our daily lives, they also pose a fire risk if not handled properly.

Lithium-ion batteries have a lot of benefits — like their ability to store more energy than traditional batteries of the same weight — but they also have disadvantages. Their ability to store a lot of energy can also be a problem if they catch on fire or explode.

While lithium-ion batteries are normally safe, they can pose a fire risk if they are damaged, not used correctly, improperly charged, or have any design defects. If they do catch on fire, I have seen firsthand how hard they can be to extinguish.

In honor of Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 6-12), here are some essential tips on buying, charging, storing, and using lithium-ion batteries to help prevent fires.

Purchase safely
Always purchase devices certified by a qualified testing laboratory. Make sure batteries, chargers, and other equipment have been tested.

Follow the instructions
Read the manufacturer’s instructions and always follow them for proper storage, usage, and charging.

Control the temperature
Keep batteries at room temperature whenever possible. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, as this can increase the risk of overheating and fires.

Store (and charge) batteries away from anything flammable
For an e-bike, charge it in a dry area away from direct sunlight. Don’t charge your smartphone, tablet or laptop on your bed as your bedding or pillow could catch fire.

Use the right equipment
Use only the charging cord that came with your device. If it gets lost or damaged, find out from the manufacturer what replacement cord is compatible with your device. Mixing and matching charging cords with your devices can lead to unsafe conditions. You should also use only the battery that came with your device.

Never overcharge
When your device is fully charged, unplug it from the charger. Don’t leave it charging overnight or all day. Unplugging it when it is finished charging prevents overheating and prolongs the life of your battery.

Finally, stop using a battery immediately if you notice any of the following: leaking, weird noises or odor, color changes, swelling or if it’s putting out too much heat. Batteries should also be routinely checked for any changes in appearance or leaking.

You don’t need to throw out all your lithium-ion battery-powered devices, but you should be aware of the risks. By practicing safe battery usage, residents can minimize the dangers and prevent fires.

About the Cy-Fair Fire Department
The Cy-Fair Fire Department provides professional fire and emergency medical services to the citizens of Northwest Harris County, Texas. From its beginnings in the late 1950s, the Cy-Fair FD is now one of the largest, busiest combination fire departments in the United States, with more than 38,000 emergency responses each year. CFFD covers the 164-square-mile area of Harris County Emergency Services District No. 9 in the unincorporated part of Northwest Harris County. Responding from 13 stations strategically located throughout the territory, the 550-plus men and women of the fire department are among the best trained and equipped firefighters, emergency medical technicians and dispatchers in the nation.