The Woodlands Fire Department warns of dangers of unmonitored batteries

THE WOODLANDS, TX – Lithium-ion batteries nowadays are an ubiquitous part of our lives. Varying in size from something as small as a raindrop to large enough to fill a car trunk, they power everything from power tools to smart watches, from laptops and tablets and phones to scooters and large automobiles, and hundreds of items in between.

These batteries are popular because they store a lot of energy in a small place. However, they can relatively easily overheat, start a fire, or even explode if overcharged or damaged. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates there are approximately 5,000 lithium-ion battery fires annually, based on data from more than 25,000 incidents of overheating or fire between 2013 and 2018. While battery-related fires are increasing, they remain relatively rare compared to other causes, but can be severe and difficult to extinguish due to their intense heat and toxic smoke.

In partnership with the National Fire Protection Association, The Woodlands Fire Department is working to make the public aware of the dangers that lithium-ion batteries can pose.

“By learning how to buy, charge, and recycle these batteries safely, you can help prevent a fire in your home,” TWFD reps said in a statement defining their ‘Charge into Fire Safety’ initiative.

Among their suggestions for maximum battery safety are:

• Buying batters with UL, ETL, or SCA certifications
• Charging devices with the cables and packs that originally came with them and avoid third-party alternatives when possible.
• Charge your device on a hard surface and unplug it when fully charged
• Check batteries for smells, heat, popping noises, or changes in shape or color
• Don’t throw batteries in the trash or recycling bin; instead, take them to a safe battery recycling location

Proper safety awareness is essential, as these fires can be intense, rapidly spreading, and release toxic fumes, which makes them particularly dangerous and difficult to fight with traditional methods. Learn more by visiting your local fire station in The Woodlands; recycling spots for lithium-ion batteries can be found at call2recycle.org.