It was not until I experienced a near disaster that I feared the possible danger of rechargeable batteries. Last summer I was given a personal rechargeable fan and soon appreciated why we hear many battery warnings.
I plugged in a chargeable fan, put it on a nearby sofa and went to clean the house. I soon smelled a burning odor. I had not thought about the fan, but as I entered the living room I saw smoke coming from the sofa and unit. It is frightful to think how close I came to igniting the entire house.
My computer tech is constantly reminding me never to charge a computer overnight. At first, I thought he meant overcharging is bad for the computer. Now I realize the importance of being vigilant while any battery charging is happening.
Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are susceptible to fires. They are used in devices such as cell phones, laptops, power tools, children’s toys, e-bikes, scooters and even more products. It is important to buy quality products that include safety features and battery management systems to prevent overheating.
Always use recommended chargers and avoid cheap chargers. Be suspect of battery products with low prices. Be vigilant to avoid counterfeits, especially online.
Some folks wonder why lithium batteries are used. Lithium batteries are compact. Imagine a 12-pack of regular batteries needing to be changed several times a day compared to one lithium battery.
The power in alkaline batteries fades over the life of the charge. Devices lose performance. With lithium batteries, the voltage stays constant until it drops to zero. By far, high quality lithium batteries are dependable to the point that folks do not even think about them. Problems arise with poor quality batteries and systems.
Battery dangers are generated by thermal runaway. It is important to be aware if batteries get hot. Remove the battery if any hissing sounds come from a device.
Teach children and employees never to use a battery device as a hammer. Impact is a major cause of battery damage. A phone or device that has been dropped should be checked often for elevated heat. Watch for any smoke emitting from a device that has been dropped or hit.
Be aware of where lithium batteries are around the home such as a pocket, purse or recharging power tools in the garage. Never store such batteries in a hallway closet that is a home’s escape route. Store rarely used devices in a fireproof bag in a protected area such as a fireplace.
Hand held devices provide a warning when they become hot to the touch. A phone might not enclose in its case as the battery expands. Plastic devices may begin to get soft or melt. Laptops might not sit flat as a battery begins to swell.
Never attempt to use water to cool a hot battery. Water makes the danger worse. Lithium reacts with water forming lithium hydroxide and highly flammable hydrogen. The colorless solution is very volatile.
Place any hot battery in a device on concrete in an open area. Cover with a fire safety blanket as fire extinguishers may not be effective.
Lithium iron phosphate batteries do not release oxygen when heated so are resistant to thermal runaway. These are considered non-flammable as they melt rather than explode.
Precautions are necessary for both batteries and chargers. Never leave batteries charging while not at home or while sleeping. Have smoke and fire detectors near charging areas.
Be especially alert regarding children’s devices. Never leave devices wrapped in a towel or bedding. Charging devices should be in an open airy place.
Battery safety is published by the U.S. Fire Administration. Online review battery safety at Take C.H.A.R.G.E.
(Janet Miller is a freelance writer specializing in family faith. She offers Family Prayers and Activities: Weekly Guides on compact disc for families to explore the Bible jmiller@dospalos.org.)
