Lithium ~ Idaho Falls Fire Department Shares Important Fire Prevention Tips for Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

As the use of lithium-ion batteries becomes increasingly prevalent in everyday devices, the Idaho Falls Fire Department (IFFD) is reminding residents to practice safe charging and disposal habits. These batteries, which power smartphones, laptops, power tools, and e-bikes, store a large amount of energy and can pose a serious fire hazard if damaged or used improperly.

According to Fire Marshal Scott Grimmett, thermal runaway is a common cause of battery-related fires. This occurs when a battery becomes overheated due to damage, improper charging, or overcharging. The resulting fire can spread quickly and be difficult to extinguish.

To prevent these incidents from occurring, IFFD is urging residents to follow manufacturer guidelines and adopt safe charging practices. This includes using original equipment such as cords and adapters supplied by the manufacturer or specifically approved for use with the device. It is also important to charge devices on hard surfaces that allow heat to dissipate naturally and avoid extreme temperatures.

Residents should also unplug devices when they are fully charged and watch for warning signs such as swelling, odors, color changes, or excessive heat. If any of these signs are present, the device should be stopped from use immediately.

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Proper disposal of lithium-ion batteries is also crucial in preventing fires. These batteries should never be thrown in household trash or recycling bins as they can cause fires in garbage trucks and at landfill facilities. Instead, residents are encouraged to use retail collection boxes at stores such as Batteries Plus, Lowe's, and Home Depot for free battery recycling.

Through partnerships with Call2Recycle, these retailers typically accept rechargeable batteries such as Ni-Cd, Li-ion, SSLA, and Ni-MH batteries. However, single-use alkaline batteries are generally not accepted.

For additional safety resources on lithium-ion battery safety, residents can turn to trusted organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. Fire Administration, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and the Idaho State Fire Marshal. These organizations offer downloadable tip sheets, handouts, and workplace guidelines for handling lithium-ion devices.

Residents can also request a community education presentation on lithium-ion battery safety by visiting the Tours & Visits section of the Idaho Falls website.

In conclusion, IFFD is reminding residents to take precautions when using and disposing of lithium-ion batteries to prevent potentially dangerous fires. By following these simple tips and utilizing available resources, residents can significantly reduce the risk of battery-related fires in their homes and communities.

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