Lithium-ion batteries power phones, laptops, cordless tools, toys, power banks, e-bikes, scooters and many other products. Most operate safely when they are properly designed, used and maintained, but a damaged or incompatible battery system can overheat, catch fire or explode.
Battery fires can develop quickly and produce intense heat and toxic smoke. Prevention begins with choosing appropriate products and following the manufacturer's directions.
Use the Correct Battery and Charger
Use only the battery and charger supplied with the device or specifically recommended by its manufacturer. A connector that physically fits does not prove that a charger provides the correct voltage, current or charging controls.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission advises consumers to use the charger provided with or recommended for an e-bike or other micromobility device and to use replacement battery packs approved for that device.
Do not modify a battery pack, combine used cells or rely on an unqualified repair. Look for products that have been tested by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to the applicable safety standard.
Charge in a Safer Location
- Follow all charging instructions.
- Charge on a stable, hard surface away from items that can burn.
- Do not block a doorway, hallway or other escape route with a charging device.
- Do not charge e-bikes or scooters while sleeping or when nobody is home.
- Unplug the device when charging is complete, as directed by the manufacturer.
- Do not cover a charger or device while it is charging.
A large battery should not be charging between your family and the only exit. Keep doors and escape routes clear as part of your home fire escape plan.
Know the Warning Signs
Stop using or charging a battery if you notice unusual heat, swelling, a change in shape or color, leaking, an unusual odor, hissing, popping or smoke. Damage from a fall, crash, crushing impact or water exposure can also make a battery unsafe even when the outside appears mostly intact.
Move away from a smoking or burning battery and call 911 from a safe location. Do not pick it up, carry it through the home or attempt to manage a growing battery fire yourself. Lithium-ion batteries can eject burning material and may reignite.
Store Batteries Carefully
Store batteries and devices in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Protect loose batteries from metal objects that could contact their terminals. Do not leave large battery packs in locations where damage, moisture or extreme temperatures are likely.
Keep batteries out of reach of children and pets. Follow the manufacturer’s storage-charge guidance for devices that will not be used for an extended period.
Check for Recalls
Product recalls may identify batteries, chargers or devices that present a fire hazard. Search the CPSC recall database and follow the official remedy and disposal instructions for any recalled product.
Never Put Lithium-Ion Batteries in Household Trash
Lithium-ion batteries should not go into household trash or ordinary curbside recycling. They can be crushed or damaged in collection trucks and processing facilities, creating a fire hazard.
Use an authorized battery recycler or local household hazardous-waste program. Protect terminals as directed by the collection program and never transport a battery that is hot, smoking or actively damaged.
Take Battery Problems Seriously
The U.S. Fire Administration identifies bulging, cracking, rising temperature, hissing and visible gases as potential signs of a dangerous battery condition.
If you see smoke or fire, get everyone outside, close the door behind you if possible and call 911. Working smoke alarms and a practiced escape plan remain essential no matter how a fire begins.