JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO, Texas –
What do smart phones, laptops, scooters, e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, toys and even cars have in common?
The answer is they all have lithium ion batteries. Though they are a much needed source of a power supply, precautions are necessary. According to the National Fire Protection Association, or NFPA, when using these batteries, be vigilant as they may cause a fire or explosion.
As lithium-ion battery use increases, so do the concerns related to the fire-safety hazards of these devices. Through a series of research efforts and partnerships, NFPA is analyzing storage and safety issues surrounding the power source fueling hundreds of millions of devices – from cell phones to electric vehicles – worldwide. Their range of uses is fueling their growing popularity.
According to the NFPA, market projections indicate that the use of lithium-ion batteries is growing at about 20 percent per year.
These batteries store a large amount of energy in small amount of space. Sometimes the batteries are not used the right way and batteries not designed for a specific use can be dangerous. Like any product, a small number of these batteries are defective. They can overheat, catch fire or explode.
Stop using the battery if you notice these problems:
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Odor
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Change in color
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Too much heat
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Change in shape
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Leaking
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Odd noises
If it is safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch on fire. Call 9-1-1.
SAFETY TIPS:
- Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Only use the battery that is designed for the device.
- Put batteries in the device the right way.
- Only use the charging cord that came with device.
- Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed or a couch.
- Keep batteries at room temperature.
- Do not place batteries in direct sunlight or keep them in hot vehicles.
- Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.
In regards to battery disposal, do not put lithium ion batteries in the trash, as recycling is always the best option. Take them to a battery recycling location or contact your community for disposal instructions.
Also, do not put discarded batteries in piles. Lithium ion batteries should be placed in a sealed metal container.
For more information about lithium ion battery safety, contact one of the Joint Base San Antonio Fire Prevention Offices. At JBSA-Fort Sam Houston, call 221-2727; at JBSA-Lackland, call 671-2921; and at JBSA-Randolph, call 652-6915.
People can also visit the National Fire Prevention Association website at http://www.nfpa.org/news-and-research/publications/nfpa-journal/2012/march-april-2012/features/elemental-questions.
(Editor’s note: Images and information contained in this article were reproduced in whole or part from http://www.nfpa.org.)