Charging Safety

Warning

Stop using the battery if you notice these problems

Odour

Change in colour

Too much heat

Change in shape

Leaking

Odd noises

Lithium-ion batteries power many consumer products

This includes phones, computers, power tools, vacuum cleaners, lawnmowers, e-scooters, e-cigarettes, toys, e-bikes, and electric vehicles. These batteries are essential for modern electronics, but they also require proper care and handling.

A plug with a flame at the end of the wire.

1

Avoiding overcharging is one way to reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires

When overcharged, lithium-ion batteries may overheat, explode, and catch fire. A little caution goes a long way in protecting your devices and your home.

2

Don't charge while you snooze

Leaving devices charging overnight increases the risk of overcharging. Always unplug your devices and batteries once they're fully charged to keep them safe.

Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home. In the event of a fire, follow your home fire escape plan and call 911 once safely outside your home.

Household Devices

Keep your battery in sight when charging and unplug it when charging is complete.

Use the charger that came with your device. If you need a replacement, buy from a trusted source and ensure it's compatible with your device.

Only use chargers that have one of the recognized

Charge your device on a hard surface, not on soft surfaces like beds, couches, or under pillows. Always charge away from exit doors in case of fire.

Charge your battery before it drops below 30% for better longevity and safety, but avoid keeping it at 100% for long periods.

Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home. In the event of a fire, follow your home fire escape plan and call 911 once safely outside your home.

E-Mobility Devices

Keep your battery in sight when charging e-mobility devices (such as e-bikes, electric motorbikes and scooters), and unplug them once fully charged. Never exceed the recommended charge time.

Use the charger that came with your device. For replacements, buy from a trusted source and match the voltage and current. For high-voltage items like e-bikes, contact the original manufacturer.

Charge your battery in a safe spot. Choose a flat, dry area away from kids, direct sunlight, liquids, and tripping hazards. Make sure your e-bike is stable and won’t fall while charging.

Charge your devices away from exit doors to keep fire escape routes clear. Avoid charging your e-mobility batteries near heating vents or radiators, as external heat can be a major fire hazard.

Only use chargers that have one of the recognized

Charge your devices away from exit doors to keep escape routes clear. Avoid charging e-mobility batteries near heating vents or radiators to reduce fire hazards.

Charge your battery before it drops below 30% for better longevity and safety, but avoid keeping it at 100% for long periods.

Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home. In the event of a fire, follow your home fire escape plan and call 911 once safely outside your home.

Electric Vehicles

Always check chargers and cords for damage. If damaged, don't use them.

Do not use extension cords with the charger.

Install chargers in safe, low-traffic areas away from flammable items. Cover the charging station outlet to keep water out.

Keep charging items out of reach of children and animals when not in use.

Before charging an electric vehicle at home, have a qualified electrician check your electrical system and install a dedicated circuit for the charger.

For Level 1 charging, use the charging cord that came with your electric vehicle. Plug it into a standard household outlet. Make sure the charger or outlet has GFCI protection. Always use a dedicated circuit.

For Level 2 charging, use a 240-volt outlet installed by a qualified electrician. Only use outdoor-rated charging stations for outdoor use. Keep charging cords off the ground.

Resources

Spread the word about lithium-ion battery safety

(PNG)

(MP4)

(PDF)

(PNG)

(PDF)

Social post (version 2)

(MP4)

Poster (version 2)

(PDF)