Educational Resources

Lithium Ion Battery Safety

Lithium-ion batteries are increasingly found in devices and systems that the public and first responders use or interact with daily. While these batteries provide an effective and efficient source of power, the likelihood of them overheating, catching on fire, and even leading to explosions increases when they are damaged or improperly used, charged, or stored. NFPA offers several resources that provide information to promote safer use of lithium-ion batteries across a wide range of applications.

Lithium Battery Safety Tips

Here are some recommended tips with explanations to enhance the safe use of Lithium-Ion batteries.

• Follow the Manufacturer’s Safety Guidelines. Instructions from a manufacturer outline proper use and maintenance of equipment to mitigate unsafe conditions and extend the life of the battery. Using equipment outside of the recommended guidelines can also void the warranty or shift liability to the operator.  
• Always Use Batteries and Battery Chargers Listed by the Manufacturer. Genuine battery and charger units from manufacturers are certified by independent testing agencies as safe and reliable when used according to manufacturer guidelines.  
• Do Not Alter Batteries, Chargers, or Charging Rates. Do not alter batteries or chargers yourself and never accept or use altered batteries or battery packs. Leave modifications of charging rates to authentic factory representatives. Altering batteries, chargers, or charging rates can interfere with the ability of the Battery Management System to protect the charger and batteries.  
• Use Extension Cords and Plug Extenders as Directed by Manufacturer’s Guidelines. The use of extension cords should only occur when absolutely necessary under temporary conditions. Improper wire size in extension cords and the use of multiple plug devices can interfere with the delivery of proper voltage to chargers and cause undersized wiring to overheat.  
• Conduct Inspections of the Battery and Charger Prior to Use. Before installing a charged battery and before initiating a charging cycle, complete a visual inspection of the battery and charger. Replace the battery if signs of wetness, bulging, dents, or punctures of the container are present. Pay attention to any expiration dates on the battery container. Ensure the charger is free from defects or damage and that connection points on the charger and the battery are free from dirt or corrosion.  
• Provide Supervision While Batteries Are Charging. Schedule charging cycles for times when you are awake and at home. Pay attention to visual indicators on chargers, as they indicate the status of the charging cycle. Supervise children when connecting appliances to chargers.  
• Unplug Chargers and Remove Batteries from Chargers When Charging Has Completed. While some manufacturers indicate a battery may be left in a charger when indicators signal charging is complete, removing the battery and unplugging the charger when the charging cycle has completed ensures power cannot be continually applied to the battery.  
• Keep Batteries and Chargers from Overheating During Use or Charging. Do not place them in direct sunlight. Do not cover them during charging or use. Do not place chargers or batteries on cloth-type materials. Avoid using appliances in a manner that places unwarranted stress on the motors or current draw from the battery.  
• Store and Charge Batteries in a Moderate Climate. Batteries work and hold a charge best in environments where temperatures are between 40°F and 104°F (4°C and 40°C).  
• Store and Charge Batteries in Orderly Environments and Away from Small Children and Pets. Locating batteries for storage or charging in cluttered areas or areas where flammable vapors may linger can exacerbate the effects on the loss of property and life if a fire occurs. Although rare, small children or pets can chew on smaller batteries causing them to experience thermal runaway. Ingestion of battery contents can be hazardous.  
• Do Not Store or Charge Batteries Within the Exit Path. Hallways, stairs, stair landings, doors, windows, or access to these components are part of an egress path and need to be free from charging or stored batteries. Consider charging larger toys, e-scooters, and e-bikes outdoors and away from escape routes.  
• Recycle Used Batteries. Dispose of batteries at recycling centers. Rechargeable batteries do not belong in garbage trucks, solid waste processing facilities, or landfills. They are still capable of igniting fires in these facilities when materials are processed.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the benefits of lithium-ion batteries while minimizing the risks.  

Resources:

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Lithium Ion Batteries 2025 - SFMO edition Flyer and Handout