10 Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tips You May Not Know

A lithium-ion battery (Li-ion battery) is a type of rechargeable battery that is common in home electronics. The problem with li-ion batteries is that they pack a large amount of energy in a small amount of space. When li-ion batteries overheat, are used the wrong way or are defective, they are prone to explosions which can result in injuries and fires. Follow these safety tips to help avoid Li-ion battery explosions:

1. Only purchase electronic devices that bear the label of an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriter’s Laboratory. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

2. Only use batteries that are designed for the device you want to power up. Check the manual or the product’s official website when you’re not sure what kind of batteries to use.

3. Insert batteries the right way. Many people accidentally place batteries the wrong way, which can damage them.

4. To avoid overheating batteries, never overcharge your device; unplug the device once it is fully charged.

5. Avoid charging your device on flammable materials, such as the bed, couch or on paper.

6. Never keep li-ion batteries near heat sources or in high temperatures, such as direct sunlight, radiators or laptops.

7. Don’t allow batteries to get wet or be exposed to water.

8. Avoid keeping li-ion batteries in the open where they can get damaged. Store them in a secure, dry, and cool place, and away from flammable materials. Keep them separate from metal objects as well.

9. If you notice signs that the battery has a problem, such as overheating, odor, leaks, or change in color/shape, shut off the device and move it away from things that can catch fire.

Never throw li-ion batteries in the trash. This causes pollution and can be a fire hazard.

10. To properly dispose of li-ion batteries, take them to a battery recycling location or contact your local waste management service provider for disposal instructions. Put batteries in a sealed metal container before recycling them.

Improper usage or disposal of li-ion batteries can cause fires. Learn more ways fires can start unexpectedly in a home here. For professional emergency smoke damage repair or fire damage repair, contact your local PuroClean office.