The Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), a division of UL Research Institutes, has issued a public service announcement (PSA) to educate holiday shoppers on fire risks posed by lithium-ion batteries.
The PSA, released as holiday shopping peaks, demonstrates how proper storage, charging, and recycling of these batteries can prevent fires.
Lithium-ion batteries are found in devices such as drones, remote-controlled toys, e-scooters, and handheld tools.
While they offer benefits like efficiency and longer charge times, they can overheat, spark, or explode if damaged, improperly used, or exposed to extreme conditions.
According to FSRI senior research director Dan Madrzykowski, larger batteries present greater risks: “The larger the battery, the higher the energy potential, which means they release more energy when they fail, leading to faster fire spread and potential damage.”
Fire departments across the globe report a rise in incidents involving lithium-ion batteries.
Data from UL Solutions indicates that since 2022, over 3,000 fires and 188 explosions have been linked to consumer products powered by these batteries.
The FSRI PSA highlights how the energy density of these batteries can lead to severe consequences if safety guidelines are ignored.
FSRI emphasizes the importance of choosing certified products tested by recognized laboratories.
Proper handling, timely detection of damage, and recycling are essential steps to minimize risks.
The FSRI Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety initiative provides actionable tips for consumers.
Key recommendations include selecting certified products, using chargers provided by manufacturers, and charging devices away from sleeping areas and flammable materials.
The guidelines caution against overnight charging of larger items like e-bikes and suggest inspecting devices for swelling, heat, or unusual odors.
FSRI also advises proper recycling of old or damaged batteries at designated centers, stressing the dangers of discarding them in regular trash.
In case of fire, FSRI recommends immediately evacuating, following a fire escape plan, and contacting emergency services.
FSRI encourages people to share battery safety practices with friends and family.
By adopting the full range of Take C.H.A.R.G.E. guidelines, households can significantly reduce fire risks and ensure safer use of lithium-ion battery-powered devices.
The Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) released a PSA focusing on lithium-ion battery fire risks during the holiday season.
Lithium-ion batteries, common in tech devices, can cause fires if improperly handled.
According to FSRI, fire departments worldwide have seen an increase in related incidents, with over 3,000 fires reported since 2022.
The Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety initiative offers tips to prevent these risks, including choosing certified products, inspecting devices for damage, and recycling batteries responsibly.
Consumers are urged to adopt these measures to enhance safety.
For more information, visit www.batteryfiresafety.org.
