ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A laptop caught fire on an American Airlines flight from Atlanta to Dallas on Friday, highlighting the dangers of lithium ion batteries that power everything from cell phones to cars.
The plane landed safely and only one passenger was treated for minor injuries. However, lithium ion battery fires happen far too frequently, according to UL Research Institutes, one of the organizations that certifies batteries.
The Federal Aviation Administration reports 58 battery fires on planes just this year. But the battery in your hand poses a danger as well.
Charging your phone at night
Deanna Dewberry, News10NBC: “So many people charge their phone overnight and they may have them right there on their pillow or on the nightstand. Should they do that?”
Alejandro Lozano, UL Research Institute: “Always look for a flat surface, ventilated spaces at the right temperature. You don’t want to keep them on soft surfaces because the fabric creates more heat and will increase the temperature of our devices.”
Charging your phone as it rests beside you in bed is a big no-no. Lozano says instead charge your phone during the day so you can monitor it.
Signs of battery damage
From your tablet to your toothbrush, experts say careless handling puts you at risk.
Dewberry: “Can the consumer see signs that their lithium ion battery is damaged?”
Lozano: “It feels hot to the touch. That’s a warning sign. If there’s any bulging, swelling, unusual smell any sweet or chemical smell, that can be a sign of a damaged battery.”
Scooter battery catches fire
But the bigger the battery, the higher the risk. A camera captured the moment a charging scooter battery caught fire in a living room.
Experts advise you to charge scooters and e-bikes in a well ventilated area that does not block your home’s exit. And do not throw any electronics in the trash.
Bluetooth speaker catches fire
In May, a garbage truck caught fire in Rochester when someone threw away a Bluetooth speaker. The lithium ion battery burst into flames when the garbage truck’s compactor crushed it.
Deanna’s ‘Do List’
With the help of UL Research Institutes, here’s a do list for lithium ion battery safety.
Always use the charging cable and block that comes with the device and certified replacements. Always charge your device on a flat surface. Always charge your device during the day when you can monitor it. Never use a damaged battery, even if your device still works.These are things to keep in mind as families buy electronics for kids going back to school, and best practices to share with children.
Experts say you should always avoid using unbranded charging blocks or cords you find at gas stations and dollar stores. You can find the battery certification on the device as well as the packaging.
Consumer Alert: Tips for safely handling lithium-ion batteries WHEC.com.
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