Fire captain shares lithium-ion battery safety tips

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - While there is no denying the advantages of lithium-ion batteries, they also pose a significant fire risk due to the flammable liquid they contain. We’re getting answers on how to minimize the risk of fires from your electronic devices both big and small.

According to a five-year study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission or CPSC, more than 25,000 fires were caused by lithium-ion batteries, resulting in at least 5,000 fires a year.

And as the popularity of devices containing these batteries rises, so too do the number of fires, or more precisely what’s called thermal runaways. Something Springfield Fire Captain Drew Piemonte told Western Mass News can make them a problem to control.

“We’ve had minor fires, and we’ve had some fairly large fires. They are very difficult to contain, they burn hot, and they consume a large amount of fuel while they’re burning.” Said Captain Piemonte.

While not yet confirmed, fire officials told us a house fire over the weekend in Amherst was most likely caused by a failed lithium-ion battery pack from an e-bike.

In fact, the CPSC specifically cites what is calls “micro mobility” products like e-scooters and e-bikes for a high rate of severe fires due to thermal runaway, the vast majority occurring while charging.

“If you see signs of battery overheating, or swelling, or cracking, that should be an indication that you should immediately call 911, that something is malfunctioning with it.” Captain Piemonte added.

That said, it’s important to know that lithium-ion batteries are unlikely to catch fire if you follow proper storage and charging procedures. But keep in mind, their plastic casings can become damaged, and they can overheat from heavy power drains.

“They need to be charged in a well-ventilated area, so they don’t overheat. A lot of (them) seem to want to charge them in their bedrooms or on their couch or other locations like that. So, when charging a lithium-ion battery, it should be in a cool dry space, preferably on a nonflammable surface.” Captain Piemonte shared.

The CPSC has also issued warnings about using third party or off-brand lithium-ion batteries saying their performance and safety isn’t guaranteed to meet national safety standards.