DANVILLE — As rechargeable devices become increasingly common in homes, the Danville Fire Department is using Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 4–10) to remind residents that everyday charging habits can make a difference in preventing lithium-ion battery fires.
According to a release from the DFD, this year’s National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on safely charging the lithium-ion batteries found in cell phones, laptops, tablets, power tools, toys, e-bikes, scooters, and many other products.
“Most of us probably have several lithium-ion batteries in our homes and don’t give them much thought until it’s time to plug something in,” said Danville Fire Inspector Tim McFadden. “The message we want Danville residents to remember is simple: use the right charger, charge on a hard surface, and if a battery gets hot, swells, smells strange, or starts making unusual noises, stop using it. A few seconds of attention can prevent a fire.”
The Danville Fire Department encourages residents to take a few minutes during Fire Prevention Week to look at how rechargeable devices are being used and charged throughout their homes.
Residents should:
Use the charging cord that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer.Charge devices on a hard, flat surface rather than a bed, couch, pillow, or other soft surface.Unplug devices when they are fully charged.Stop using a battery that becomes very hot, swells, leaks, smells unusual, smokes or makes popping or hissing sounds.When possible, charge larger devices such as e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and never allow charging devices to block an exit.
NFPA notes that damaged batteries can overheat and start fires and that larger batteries found in items such as e-bikes, scooters, and power tools store more energy and can produce rapidly growing fires if they fail.
“Fire prevention isn’t just something we talk about one week a year,” McFadden said. “Take a few minutes to look around your home. Check your smoke alarms, know how your family will get out if there’s a fire, and pay attention to where and how you’re charging your devices. Those simple actions can save lives.”
For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit www.fpw.org.