Fire And Life Safety

Lithium-ion Battery

Take C.H.A.R.G.E of Battery Safety

With the emergence of new technology comes new risks. The UL Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) is enhancing our understanding of battery safety to ensure that you can safely use and enjoy Lithium-ion powered devices.

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What Is A Lithium-ion Battery?



Lithium-ion battery (Li-ion) is the most popular rechargeable chemistry used today. These powered devices can be found in the home and workplace in products too numerous to count.


Common Products With Li-ion Batteries:

  • Cell phones
  • Laptops
  • Electric power tools
  • Wheelchairs
  • Lawn mowers
  • E-Bikes
  • E-Scooters
  • Electric vehicles











Incidents Are On The Rise


In recent years, incidents involving fires from various lithium-ion battery-operated products have surged alarmingly, leading to numerous injuries and fatalities.

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Fire Moves Fast



These fires can spread rapidly, from the first warning signs of smoke or hissing noises, you may have less than one minute to escape a fire.

To address this, FSRI has launched the “Taking C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety” initiative, aimed at helping you make life-saving changes in your home.









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Click on the links below to explore the six crucial tips for the Take C.H.A.R.G.E. campaign in greater detail.

CHOOSE CERTIFIED PRODUCTS









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Choose Certified Products

Lithium batteries are sensitive to charging conditions. Overcharging or charging beyond the recommended voltage can cause them to overheat, potentially leading to thermal runaway, fire, or explosion. Certified products are tested to ensure they include built-in protections like temperature regulation, overcharge protection, and voltage management systems.

  • When purchasing lithium-ion battery-powered devices, be sure to look for products that are listed or safety certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to ensure they meet important safety requirements.
  • Countless products sold online do not meet these critical safety standards
  • Certification standards (such as UL, CE, or IEC) ensure that lithium batteries meet specific quality and safety requirements. These standards set limits on the battery’s charge cycles, lifespan, and the materials used in construction. Non-certified batteries may use substandard components or lack necessary safety features, increasing the risk of malfunction.




HANDLE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY-POWERED DEVICES WITH CARE.









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handle lithium battery-powered devices with care

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Only use the charging equipment that comes with the product.
  • Store batteries away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, exits, and anything flammable.
  • Do not modify the battery or the charger in any way.
  • Charge Charge larger devices (such as eBikes) outside the home – and never in your exit path.
  • Do not charge larger devices overnight.




ALWAYS STAY ALERT FOR WARNING SIGNS.








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ALways stay alert for warning signs

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Only use the charging equipment that comes with the product.
  • Store batteries away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, exits, and anything flammable.
  • Do not modify the battery or the charger in any way.
  • Charge Charge larger devices (such as eBikes) outside the home – and never in your exit path.
  • Do not charge larger devices overnight.




RECYCLE DEVICES AND BATTERIES PROPERLY.








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recycle devices and batteries properly

  • Responsibly dispose of old or damaged batteries and devices by taking them to the nearest battery recycling center. 
  • Never discard batteries, chargers, or battery-powered devices in regular trash bins.

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GET OUT QUICKLY IF THERE’S A FIRE.




 


 

 

 

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get out quickly if there's a fire

 

  • Know the warning signs to look and listen for and get out if you see – or hear – one.
  • Follow your home fire escape plan to leave immediately and call 9-1-1.

Plan your Escape

 


 
 
EDUCATE OTHERS ON BATTERY SAFETY.









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educate others on battery safety

Now that you know what actions to take, spread the word. Protect your friends and loved ones by sharing how they can Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety.