Power up safely: Parkland urges caution with lithium-ion batteries
Simple charging habits can help prevent fires, serious burns and injuries
Cell phones, laptops, tablets, power tools, e-bikes and even children’s toys have something in common: many are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. They make everyday life more convenient, but when damaged, improperly charged or overheated, these batteries can pose a serious fire and burn risk.
During Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 4–10, Parkland Health experts are encouraging North Texans to take a closer look at how they charge and use the battery-powered devices found throughout their homes.
This year’s National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on simple charging habits that can reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires. NFPA notes that lithium-ion batteries store a significant amount of energy in a small space and can overheat, catch fire or even explode if damaged or charged improperly.
“Lithium-ion batteries have become such a routine part of our lives that it’s easy to forget how much energy they store,” said Rebecca Coffey, PhD, MSN, BSN, CBRN, Parkland’s Burn Program Manager. “A damaged or overheating battery can ignite very quickly, and the resulting fire can cause devastating burn injuries. The good news is that simple changes in how we charge, use and store these devices can help reduce the risk.”
Parkland experts recommend taking these precautions when using devices powered by lithium-ion batteries:
• Use the right charger. Use the cord and charger that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer. Off-brand or incompatible chargers may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
• Choose a hard surface. Charge devices on a hard, flat surface such as a table, desk or bare floor. Never charge a phone, tablet or other device on a bed, couch, pillow or other soft surface that can trap heat and restrict airflow.
• Unplug when fully charged. Once a device or piece of equipment is fully charged, unplug it. Leaving a device plugged in unnecessarily can increase heat and place additional stress on the battery.
• Take larger devices outside. When possible, charge e-bikes, e-scooters, power tools and other equipment with larger lithium-ion batteries outdoors. Keep charging equipment away from doors, hallways and other exits so a fire does not block the way out.
• Know the warning signs. Stop using a device or battery immediately if it becomes unusually hot, swells, leaks, smells strange, smokes or makes popping or hissing sounds. These can be signs that the battery is failing.
• Use extra caution when flying. Keep devices visible while charging aboard an aircraft so problems can be detected quickly. E-cigarettes and vaping devices should never be charged during a flight. If a device becomes hot, begins swelling, emits an unusual odor or starts smoking, alert a flight attendant immediately.
Consumers should also look for products that have been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Damaged or unwanted lithium-ion batteries should not be placed in household trash or regular recycling bins. Consumers should follow local guidelines for safe battery disposal or recycling.
“We don’t want people to be afraid of the technology they use every day. We want them to use it safely,” Coffey said. “Don’t charge your phone under your pillow, don’t ignore a battery that’s getting unusually hot or beginning to swell, and don’t continue using a damaged device. Those are simple precautions that can prevent a fire and potentially a life-changing injury.”
Fire Prevention Week has been observed nationally for more than a century to raise awareness about fire prevention, and the steps individuals and families can take to protect themselves. In addition to practicing safe charging habits, families should make sure they have working smoke alarms and a home fire escape plan.
Parkland’s Burn Center provides comprehensive care for adult and pediatric patients with burn injuries, from emergency and critical care through rehabilitation, outpatient treatment and long-term recovery. It is the only American Burn Association-verified burn center in North Texas providing care for both adults and children and one of only seven burn centers nationwide with triple verification for adult burn care, pediatric burn care and burn fellowship training.
For more information about services available at Parkland, please visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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