Lithium-ion Battery Safety Tips

Published on June 09, 2025

Lithium-ion batteries power a wide variety of office and household devices, ranging from smart phones to power tools to e-bikes. They provide an effective and efficient source of power. However, when damaged or improperly stored or charged, they can quickly overheat, catch on fire, and even explode.

To prevent these dangerous fires, follow these safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Only purchase and use devices, batteries, and charging equipment that are listed by a nationally recognized testing lab and labeled accordingly.
• Always follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
• Only use the battery and the charger that were designed for and came with the device.
• Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.
• Only charge one device or device battery at a time to prevent overloading the circuit.
• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C).
• Do not store batteries in direct sunlight or inside hot vehicles, and keep them away from children and liquids.
• Store e-bikes, e-scooters, and batteries away from exit doors and anything that can get hot or catch fire.
• Only have device repairs performed by a qualified professional.
• Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the household trash or curbside recycling bin. Lithium-ion batteries should be taken to separate recycling or household hazardous waste collection points.
• Stop using the e-bike or e-scooter if you notice any of these problems with the battery: unusual odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking, smoking, or not keeping a charge.

If you see a fire:

• Leave the building immediately.
• Don’t try to fight the fire.
• Call 911.

For more information, visit nfpa.org/lithiumionsafety or contact the Melbourne Fire Prevention Office: 321-608-7910.