Author: David E. Mertz x6322 16311N

Battery Safety

Where Are They Found?
Lithium-Ion batteries are found in many modern devices like cell phones, e-cigarettes, laptops, cameras, hoverboards, vehicles, power tools, and drones. Portable instruments are also incorporating Lithium-ion batteries

What makes Lithium-Ion batteries different?
Lithium Ion batteries hold an unprecedented amount of energy for their size and weight.
Unlike other consumer batteries, special controllers have to be built into Lithium-Ion batteries to protect them from damage during charging and normal use.

What can go wrong?
When damaged they can self-ignite and burn people and property.

Dos
Buy manufacturer recommended chargers and batteries for devices
Dispose of at appropriate facilities
Regularly inspect chargers and batteries for damage
Use only NRTL listed chargers

Don’ts
Charge when the device is excessively cold or hot (Below 32F or above 90F)
Mix batteries of different types or manufacturers
Buy deeply discounted batteries or chargers. (Likely to be counterfeit.)
Crush, drop, puncture, or otherwise damage
Force charging connectors. If it doesn’t fit you must quit.
Dispose of in regular trash
Put pack into checked airline baggage

Signs of Failure
Bulging or cracking case
Odor of burning electronics
Battery pack or device swells
Won’t hold charge or recharge
Smoke/flames