The Detroit Fire Department hosted an event to educate residents on lithium-ion battery safety, focusing on preventing fire risks associated with improper use, storage, and charging.
Executive Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms was joined by Detroit Fire Marshal Don Thomas, State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer, Ferndale Fire Chief Teresa Robinson, and Grosse Pointe Director of Public Safety John Alcorn to promote best practices for these commonly used batteries.
Simms stated: “We want to ensure residents have the information they need to make good decisions to keep their families safe.”
Lithium-ion batteries, often found in devices such as cell phones, electric bikes, and laptops, can overheat or catch fire when damaged or improperly charged.
Key risks include using non-certified chargers or charging devices beyond full capacity.
Fire Marshal Thomas emphasized the importance of using certified charging equipment, noting: “Lithium-ion batteries and the devices that use them are not our enemy, but the public needs to be better informed on possible safety risks involved with improper use.”
Improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries also poses hazards.
Residents are advised to recycle batteries rather than discard them in regular trash to reduce fire risk.
Damaged batteries showing signs of swelling, heat, or unusual odors should be discontinued immediately, with repairs handled only by qualified professionals.
State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer stressed the dangers of charging devices near building exits.
“Moving devices away from building entrances and exits is key to protecting lives if a fire does break out,” he said.
Officials also advised against charging devices on flammable surfaces, such as beds or couches.
Instead, batteries should be charged on flat, dry surfaces at room temperature.
Ferndale Fire Chief Teresa Robinson and Grosse Pointe Director of Public Safety John Alcorn praised the Detroit Fire Department’s initiative.
Robinson stated: “Working collaboratively to get the message out always has a bigger impact.”
Alcorn encouraged residents to follow safety advice and ensure homes are equipped with working smoke detectors.
The Detroit Fire Department, alongside local and state officials, conducted an awareness event to educate residents on the safe use, storage, and disposal of lithium-ion batteries.
The risks of improper charging, damaged batteries, and unsafe storage locations were highlighted as major fire hazards.
Recommendations included using certified charging equipment, recycling batteries, and keeping devices away from building exits and flammable surfaces.
Officials underscored the importance of collaboration in spreading safety messages to reduce risks during the holiday season.
