Following a fire ignited by a lithium-ion battery that was being charged, the acting fire chief in Lambton Shores is urging residents to take steps to reduce the risks associated with the commonly-used source of power.
Acting Fire Chief David McLean said a small fire was ignited last weekend in Lambton Shores when a battery for a “hoverboard” was being charged.
“They were actually charging it on top of a pair of shoes and a construction vest and it caught fire,” he said.
The fire had been extinguished by the residents by the time firefighters arrived and “damage was minimal,” McLean said.
“There’s a lot of focus on lithium-ion batteries in the fire service and the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office,” he said. “They’re causing fires.”
McLean said Lambton Shores issued a news release this week because “people need to be aware there is a fire hazard there.”
“These batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space, and they can overheat, catch fire or explode,” he said.
“It’s important for people to know how to properly charge and use these batteries.”
While these batteries have become a common, important power source for many, “they can pose significant risks to individuals and property if not handled properly,” the municipality said in a news release.
It’s important to use only the battery designed for a device and the charging cord that came with it, it said.
Also, residents shouldn’t charge a device under a pillow or on a bed or couch.
Residents should avoid continuing to charge a device or battery after its fully charged and, when possible, keep batteries at room temperature and not charge them at temperatures below 0 C or above 40 C.
When charging, especially larger devices such as e-bikes or e-scooters, it’s important the battery is in a flat, dry area away from direct sunlight, the service said,
Batteries should be stored away from anything that can catch fire, it added.
“If you notice an odor, a change in color, too much heat, a change in shape, leaking, or odd noises coming from the battery, there’s a problem and you should stop using it immediately,” McLean said.
“If the battery is charging and you notice any of these signs, and it is safe to do so, unplug the device and move it away from anything that can catch fire.”