Fire Prevention Week: Safely utilizing and disposing lithium-ion batteries | Virginia Tech Information

From: Virginia Tech Environmental Health and Safety

Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 5-11. This yr’s marketing campaign from the National Fire Prevention Association is, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home!” to focus on the significance of shopping for, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries safely. Lithium-ion batteries energy many electronics that we use day by day together with cell telephones, tablets, cordless vacuums, and a few energy instruments. Almost each product that’s rechargeable comprises a lithium-ion battery. 

Virginia Tech Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) encourages everybody to soundly use lithium-ion batteries in accordance with the next tips:

Look for a security certification mark on the packaging or on the product.

Use the charger that got here with the machine or a charger that’s accepted by the producer. When charging, solely cost on a tough floor. Never cost on a tender floor reminiscent of a mattress, sofa or pillow. Never depart batteries unattended whereas charging.

Avoid leaving gadgets related to chargers for extreme intervals, as this may result in overcharging and battery pressure.

Store batteries away from warmth and flammable supplies. Avoid excessive and low temperatures.

Regularly verify batteries and gadgets for bodily injury, together with swelling, cracks, free wires, corrosion, and indicators of affect. 

Immediately cease use in case you discover leaks, unusual noises, odors, or adjustments in form. If the battery is smoking or sparking, name 911 instantly.

Don’t throw batteries away in an everyday recycling bin or within the trash. For batteries related to analysis or educational operations, go to our website to request a battery pickup by EHS.

For extra fireplace prevention sources go to Virginia Tech Environmental Health and Safety’s fireplace and life security webpage.