Fire Prevention Month (October) might be over, but that doesn’t mean you should just forget about it until next year. With 2025’s theme being Charge Into Safety™, the Lyon Township and South Lyon Fire Departments want residents to be more vigilant than ever when it comes to lithium-ion batteries, and how to safely use, store and dispose of them.



Lithium-Ion Battery Safety: What Everyone Should Know

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day – from smartphones and laptops to e-bikes, scooters and power tools. While these batteries are generally safe, they can pose serious fire and explosion risks if not used or stored correctly. Whether you’re charging your phone or storing a power bank, understanding lithium-ion battery safety can help prevent accidents and protect your home and loved ones.



Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Can Be Dangerous

Lithium-ion batteries store a significant amount of energy in a relatively small space. If they are damaged, overcharged, exposed to heat, or misused, they can:
• Overheat
• Catch fire
• Explode

These incidents are rare, but when they happen they
can be fast-moving and dangerous – especially indoors.



Common Causes of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

1. Overcharging or using the wrong charger
2. Physical damage (drops, punctures, crushing)
3. Poor quality or counterfeit batteries
4. Charging near flammable materials
5. Exposure to high temperatures or direct sunlight



Safety Tips for Everyday Use

Charging

• Always use the manufacturer’s charger or one that is certified for your device.
• Plug devices into wall outlets, not extension cords or power strips, especially for high-powered devices like e-bikes.
• Never leave charging devices unattended or charging overnight.
•Stop using a battery if it gets hot, swells, leaks, or smells strange.

Storage

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Don’t keep batteries in hot cars or near heaters.
• Avoid storing batteries with metal objects (like keys or coins) that could cause a short circuit.

Handling and Disposal

• Don’t crush, puncture or disassemble lithium-ion batteries.
• Replace damaged batteries immediately.
• Recycle used batteries properly at designated collection points – never throw them in the trash.

Extra Tips for E-Bikes, Scooters and Power Tools

• Only buy batteries and chargers from reputable manufacturers.
• Let batteries cool down after use before charging.
• Never modify or try to repair battery packs yourself.
• If your battery was submerged in water (e.g., during flooding), treat it as hazardous and contact your local waste authority.



Warning Signs of a Problem

If you see any of these signs, stop using the battery immediately and move it to a safe, non-flammable area, preferably outside:
• Swelling or bulging
• Leaking fluid
• Hissing, popping or unusual smells
• Excessive heat or smoke

Call 911 if a battery catches fire — lithium-ion battery fires can flare up again even after they appear to be extinguished.



Final Reminder

Be smart. Be safe. Lithium-ion batteries are powerful and efficient, but they require careful handling. By following basic safety practices, you can reduce the risk of fire and help keep your home and community safe.

For More Information or disposal locations visit Call2Recycle.org or contact your local fire department or municipal recycling center.