The popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters, cellphones, laptops and electric vehicles is resulting in an increase in fires caused by the lithium-ion batteries that power devices.
Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services (RHFES) has partnered with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to raise awareness about the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and ways to minimize them, according to a City of Richmond Hill news release.
NFPA and RHFES recommend these tips when buying, charging, storing, and using lithium-ion batteries to help prevent fires:
- Only purchase and use devices, batteries, and charging equipment that are listed by a nationally recognized testing lab and labelled accordingly.
- Only use charging equipment compatible with your device. To be safe, use only the charging equipment that is supplied with your device and only charge small devices on a hard surface.
- Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.
- Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is always the best option. Take the batteries to a battery recycling location.
- Stop using your device if the battery shows signs of damage, such as an unusual odour, excessive heat, popping sounds, swelling, or change in colour.
- Only have device repairs performed by a qualified professional.
Learn more about the Charge into Fire Safety campaign and download free safety tip sheets at nfpa.org/lithiumionsafety.
For more fire prevention information, visit RichmondHill.ca/FirePrevention.
“RHFES encourages residents to learn more about the hazards of lithium-ion batteries. By better understanding how lithium-ion battery fires start, people can take the necessary steps to minimize associated risks and safely use their electronics and other devices powered by these batteries,” said Bryan Burbidge, Richmond Hill fire chief.
