As seasons change and weather becomes drier, fire prevention awareness has become increasingly important, according to an October 21 report. The report highlighted that October 4-10 was fire prevention week, which focused on the theme of Safe Charging is a Superpower!
To reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires, the report advises using only the cord and charger that came with a device or one approved by the manufacturer. Cheap chargers may bypass safety standards, which can damage batteries and increase fire risks. Additionally, devices should be charged on hard, flat surfaces like a desk or hardwood floor, as soft surfaces like couches or mattresses can trap heat and cause a fire.
Users are encouraged to unplug devices once the battery is full to prevent overheating from overcharging. It is also recommended to charge larger batteries, such as those found in e-bikes, scooters, or power tools, outside, as these store more energy and can lead to larger fires. When flying, electronic devices should be kept in sight, and e-cigarettes, vapes, or portable batteries should not be charged on a flight.
The report noted that damaged batteries can overheat and lead to fires. Signs of a damaged battery include swelling, smoke, leaks, strange smells, overheating, or unusual sounds such as popping or hissing. If a device begins to swell, overheat, or produce strange sounds while on a plane, passengers should immediately notify a flight attendant.
