Lithium Ion Battery Safety

a cell phone is held up in front of an electric scooter

Download & Share our lithium ion battery bulletin

Get Plugged In To Safety!

Lithium ion batteries keep you connected and take you on the go. They also store a large amount of energy, can burn explosively, and may pose a serious threat if not properly cared for.

Charge Up Safely

Never:

  • Purchase off-brand chargers.
  • Charge your device under a pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.
  • Store or charge your devices near your primary exit from a room. If these devices catch on fire, you will not be able to escape.

Always:

  • Use the charger that came with your device.
  • Look for a “UL” (Underwriters Laboratories) mark on your devices and chargers. Products that do not have this mark may not have been safety tested and could pose a fire hazard.

Recycle Responsibly

Lithium ion batteries cannot be thrown in the trash. Learn how to properly dispose of old batteries.

  • Place clear packing tape over the contact points of the battery.
  • Separate lithium ion batteries from all other types of batteries.
  • Drop off your lithium ion batteries at your nearest City drop-off site.

Smart Storage

Lithium ion batteries are to blame for fire-related injuries and deaths nationwide. Always store your batteries at room temperature. Keep lithium ion-powered devices away from your primary exit out of a room or building, especially when storing e-bicycles and e-scooters.

Damaged batteries are likelier to start on fire and should be replaced. Do not overcharge your lithium ion batteries.

Watch these videos to see how quickly lithium ion batteries ignite and to learn more about the potential dangers related to them.

Was this page helpful to you?