Clackamas Fire Urges Residents to Power Up Their Devices with Fire Safety in Mind

Total loss of home due to lithium-ion battery fire. (Photo Credit: Clackamas Fire)

By: Clackamas Fire, For The Sandy Standard

October is Fire Prevention Month, and Clackamas Fire would like to bring attention to lithium- ion battery safety. Many devices used in our daily lives — phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters — run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. While these batteries provide an effective and efficient source of power, the likelihood of them overheating, catching on fire, and even leading to explosions increases when they are damaged or improperly used, charged, or stored. Understanding these risks is crucial for protecting yourself and those around you.

The way you charge your lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires. It comes down to making smart choices every time you plug in.

Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the chance of fire. Cheap or off-brand chargers may not meet important safety standards. Nationally recognized testing laboratories include UL, ETL, and CSA. Their mark on packaging indicates the product meets important safety standards.
Charge on a hard, flat surface like a table, desk, or bare floor. Devices and chargers create heat during normal charging. Soft surfaces like beds, pillows, and couches can trap heat and block airflow, which can cause a battery to overheat.
Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, smells strange, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds. These are warning signs that the battery may be damaged or failing.
Unplug your device when it is fully charged. Do not leave it plugged in longer than needed. Leaving a device plugged in can increase heat and stress on the battery.
Charge large items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside when possible. Do not block exits when charging. Because these batteries are larger and store more energy, fires can grow and spread quickly if the battery fails.
When on a plane, keep devices where you can see them while charging. Do not charge e-cigarettes or vapes on the plane. Tell a flight attendant if you notice a problem with your device, such as it feels very hot, starts to swell, is smoking, or has a strange smell. If a battery overheats or fails, it is important for the flight crew to be able to respond quickly.
Store batteries at room temperature, away from flammable materials. Do not charge them at temperatures below 32°F or above 105°F.
Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location. Visit batterynetwork.org to find a recycling spot near you.
If a battery starts to smoke or catches fire, call 911 immediately. Tell dispatch it involves a lithium-ion battery, move away from the smoke or gases, and if possible, stay upwind. Do not attempt to pick up or move the battery.

Lithium-ion battery fires happen in seconds, but they are entirely preventable. Your proactive awareness is the ultimate line of defense.

Clackamas Fire encourages everyone to take these small, daily precautions to protect your home, your tech, and your loved ones.