Lithium-ion batteries are becoming a larger part of our everyday lives. They can be found in cell phones, tablets, laptops, electric bikes and scooters, toothbrushes, backup batteries, and other regularly used devices. Damaged or defective batteries can cause fires. Learn more about how to spot a battery problem.
Signs of a battery problem:
- Change in the battery color
- Sweet electrical burning odor emitting from the battery
- Noises or leaking coming from the battery
- Change in the battery or device shape
- Smoke coming from the battery
What to do if a battery fire occurs:
- A damaged battery may release toxic gas that may not be visible and can be deadly even in small amounts.
- Evacuate the area as batteries can explode and alert others in the home.
- Call 911 and notify them of the battery fire.
What to do with a damaged battery:
- If safe to do so, move suspected damaged or defective batteries or devices to an area away from the structure or into fireproof containers.
- Damaged batteries should be handled with care.
- Never place batteries in regular waste and recycling bins, as they will likely catch fire.
- Batteries should only be recycled at approved battery recycling drop-off locations. Damaged, defective, or recalled batteries require special attention. Visit call2recycle.org for more information.
