Lithium-Ion Batteries: Fire Dangers and Safety Tips

You might be familiar with the term “lithium-ion battery,” but if not, you may be surprised to learn how much these devices power in our everyday lives. From laptops to cell phones to cars, these handy batteries seem to be in everything…but unfortunately, they also pose a fire risk. Because they are so prevalent in our everyday lives, it is important to know what you should and shouldn’t do with lithium-ion batteries, to help prevent fires. So, what exactly are lithium-ion batteries in the first place? How can they be handled safely?

If a fire does occur, whether from a lithium-ion battery or another source, know SERVPRO^® is Here to Help^® with cleanup, restoration, and construction after the fact.

What is a Lithium-Ion Battery?

Science Direct defines a lithium-ion battery as: “a rechargeable battery that utilizes lithium ions moving between electrodes during charging and discharging processes. These batteries are commonly used in consumer electronics due to their high energy density and long cycle life.”

Notably, according to the University of Washington’s Clean Energy Institute, lithium-ion batteries are the predominant form of chargeable commercial batteries. In fact, their popularity has contributed to their use in the electric transportation industry.

What are Pros and Cons of Lithium-Ion Batteries?

Like most things in life, there are both positives and negatives to lithium-ion batteries. Some pros include:

• They have a high energy density.
• They require generally low maintenance.
• They are used in laptops, cell phones, smoke alarms, toys, cars, and more.
• They do not contain toxic cadmium or lead.

However, some drawbacks include:

• A small number can be defective, and might explode, catch fire, and/or overheat.
• They store a lot of energy in a small space.
• If they are not used properly, they can be dangerous (i.e. not used in the correct way).

Lithium-Ion Batteries: Fire Safety Tips

The National Fire Protection Association outlines a variety of fire safety tips when it comes to successfully handling and using lithium-ion batteries, including:

• Make sure to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use lithium-ion batteries properly.
• Purchase devices (like cell phones and laptops) that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Do not charge devices under your pillow, on a couch, or on a bed.
• Do not keep charging a device after it is fully charged.
• Make sure batteries are placed in devices correctly.
• Use the charging cord that came with the device—nothing else.
• Make sure batteries are stored away from combustible items.
• Only use batteries designed specifically for the device in question.
• Keep batteries at room temperature if you can. They should not be charged below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C).
• Do not put discarded batteries in piles.
• Do not throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Instead, recycle them (if possible) by taking them to a battery recycling location. You may also wish to check with your community for proper disposal instructions and locations.

Signs of a Faulty Lithium-Ion Battery

If you notice these signs, it may mean your lithium-ion battery is having a problem:

• You notice an odd or unusual odor emanating from the battery.
• Its color or shape changes.
• It starts leaking.
• It starts making odd noises.
• It becomes too hot.

Ultimately, call 911 when you notice these signs. Additionally, take the battery away from anything combustible (if safely possible).

For Battery Fires, SERVPRO is Here to Help with Cleanup, Restoration, and Construction

Lithium-ion batteries help plenty of items function, and are certainly useful for many parts of life, but they can also pose a serious fire risk. Whether you experience a fire from a faulty lithium-ion battery, or a space heater or kitchen accident, SERVPRO is here to help. With 24-hour emergency services, we are the #1 choice in fire and water cleanup and restoration* for a reason.

Established in 1967, SERVPRO has teams across the country prepared to help with any size cleanup, restoration, and construction job. With over five decades of experience, rest assured that no matter the extent of your fire damage, SERVPRO professionals will be there, ready to assist and help return your property to pre-loss condition. With 2270 SERVPRO locations in the United States and Canada, there is a franchise near you. Reach out to your local franchise today and learn how we can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

To learn more about SERVPRO and the cleanup and restoration industry, please visit our FAQ and Glossary.