Practicing Fire Safety With Lithium Batteries

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Batteries can create fire hazards

OH NOOO!!!!! MY laptop is on fire!!!!

Lithium may sound familiar to you as we hear of it a lot because of our reliance on electronic devices. In terms of power, lithium tackles multiple different roles, including the power source for lithium batteries and lithium-ion batteries. The two types of lithium batteries differ in their cell type and abilities to recharge, but they both allow electronic devices to run on portable energy. As a result, many of the electronic devices that we use on a daily basis employ lithium batteries. It is important then to understand that lithium is a powerful substance that can create fire hazards in some circumstances. Read on in order to learn more about the steps that you can take to prevent fire damage caused by lithium batteries.

Why Are Lithium Batteries Such a Concern?

While risks accompany lithium batteries, they are still safe for everyday use. Unless they short-circuit or overheat to a certain degree, both of which are rare occurrences, lithium batteries can be used safely on a regular basis. However, overheating and overcharging can both cause electronic devices to release a significant amount of heat, increasing the risk of fire. You may have seen news stories about cell phones and hover boards going up in flames on hot days, but these circumstances are extraordinarily rare. As a matter of fact, the US Postal Service categorizes lithium batteries as Class 9 hazards, a category consisting of miscellaneous hazardous materials that are only dangerous in transit situations.

Preventing Lithium Battery Fires

In our everyday lives, lithium batteries and lithium-ion batteries play important roles by powering devices of all kinds, from electric toothbrushes to cell phones and laptops. Certain times of the year, like summer, increases the risk of fires resulting from overheating. One preventative measure is making sure that electronic devices are not left lying idle in hot environments such as hot cars or under the sun for prolonged periods of time. Additionally, it is a good idea to avoid charging electronic devices in hot environments. Charging your devices can be made safer by avoiding overcharging and utilizing a high-quality charger. It may also be helpful to purchase a strong case for your device that will effectively protect its battery from potential damage.

If You Experience Fire Damage, Call SERVPRO

Even if preventative measures are put in place, it is still possible for the unimaginable to happen. That’s why SERVPRO of Clarion Jefferson and Forest Counties is always standing by in the event that an emergency occurs and we are ready to make it "Like it never even happened." Whether it’s a lithium battery or a different reason that causes a fire to ignite and cause damage to your property, SERVPRO can help. As a leading name in the fire damage restoration industry, we offer top-of-the-line Commercial and Residential Fire Damage Restoration Services for your property. For immediate services and the best chance of preventing any further damage, CALL SERVPRO of Clarion Jefferson and Forest Counties at 814 849-5653.And by reading more on our website. Trust SERVPRO and our 24 hour emergency services to help you restore your residential or commercial property to its preloss condition in the event of a fire.