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UL Research Institutes Shares Ways to Reduce Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Risk On-the-Go and At Home During the Holiday Season

via Business Wire

Fifty Percent of U.S. Travelers Unaware of Lithium-Ion Battery Risk

UL Research Institutes is sharing how to Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of lithium-ion battery safety to prevent battery fires at home and on-the-go, as tech gifts top holiday wish lists and people prepare to travel for the holidays.

Lithium-ion batteries have quietly transformed modern life, powering everything from smartphones and laptops to e-bikes, electric vehicles, power tools, toys, and home energy systems. On average, two flights per week experienced lithium-ion battery incidents in 2024, according to data from UL Standards & Engagement. Most travelers bring four lithium-ion battery-powered devices on their trip – smartphones (81%), laptops (40%), wireless headphones (38%), and tablets (35%).

However, despite their growing presence, 50% of Americans admit to not knowing anything about lithium-ion batteries and 60% of travelers remain unaware of how prevalent these batteries are in everyday devices and, including the dangers posed by damaged, counterfeit or improperly charged devices.

Lithium-ion batteries store energy more densely than traditional battery-powered devices, and if damaged, improperly charged or overheated could be at risk for catching fire.

“Recent spikes in lithium-ion battery incidents in transit environments have underscored the need to expand public education,” said Nicole Sanders, Public Education Lead for UL Research Institutes. “To improve public safety, we’ve developed clear guidelines for how to ‘Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety’ at home and on-the-go using best practices informed by response data and firefighter testimonials.”

The Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety tips outline how to properly handle, store and charge lithium-ion battery-powered devices:

  1. Choose Certified Products: Prioritize your safety by selecting lithium-ion battery-powered devices certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to ensure they meet important safety requirements.
  2. Handle Lithium-Ion Battery-Powered Devices with Care: Always follow manufacturer guidelines and use the provided charger for lithium-ion battery-powered devices. Avoid modifying batteries or chargers and charge your devices in safe environments away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight and flammable materials. Never charge under a pillow, blanket or in a bag. It’s also important to unplug devices at home and pay attention to size limitations from transit providers before embarking on a trip.
  3. Always Stay Alert for Warning Signs: Regularly inspect devices for any signs of damage, such as swelling or punctures. Be aware of unusual sounds like hissing or popping. Watch out for excessive heat or a strange odor. White or gray wispy smoke indicates there is immediate danger of fire. If you notice any of these warning signs, immediately unplug and stop using the lithium-ion battery-powered device. Keep your devices visible when traveling and charging. Do not put any lithium-ion battery-powered devices or gifts in checked bags.
  4. Recycle Devices and Batteries Properly: Never toss batteries in public trash bins or leave them behind when traveling.
  5. 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 them. When at home, follow your fire escape plan to leave immediately, closing doors behind you as you exit and call 9-1-1. Create an escape plan and practice it with everyone living in the home so you're ready in the event of a fire emergency. In public spaces like transit hubs, locate exits and escape routes. If a device shows warning signs, evacuate immediately and alert authorities.
  6. Educate Others on Safe Practices: If gifting battery-powered devices, inform recipients of how they can Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety using safe travel and charging practices. Help protect your travel companions by reminding them to keep devices in carry-on luggage, never in checked bags.

To fully Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety, it is crucial to see these guidelines not as individual tips, but interconnected steps. Each measure supports and reinforces the others. Embracing and adhering to these guidelines can significantly reduce risk and create a safer home or work environment. For more information, visit batteryfiresafety.org.

About Fire Safety Research Institute

UL Research Institutes’ Fire Safety Research Institute advances fire science and fire safety knowledge to reduce risk, save lives, and protect property. We conduct rigorous research, outreach, and education in collaboration with the fire service, fire safety professionals, policymakers, communities, and an international network of partners. Together, we develop tools, resources, and strategies that improve fire safety outcomes worldwide. To learn more, visit fsri.org. Follow Fire Safety Research Institute on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

About UL Research Institutes

UL Research Institutes is a nonprofit research organization dedicated to advancing public safety through scientific discovery. Since 1894, our research has advanced our mission toward a safer, more secure and sustainable future. Focused on global risks from fire mitigation and air quality to safe energy storage and digital privacy, we conduct rigorous independent research, analyze safety data and partner with experts to uncover and act on existing and emerging risks to human safety. Discover more at UL.org.

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