Prevent Lithium Ion Battery Fires
Lithium ion batteries help keep you connected and take you on the go. They also store a lot of energy, can burn explosively, and may pose a serious threat if not properly cared for.
What Devices Have Lithium Ion Batteries?
Many commonly used devices have lithium ion batteries, including, but not limited to:
- Cell phones
- Tablets
- Laptops
- E-bikes
- E-scooters
- Electric toothbrushes
Caring for Lithium Ion Batteries
Never
- Purchase off-brand chargers.
- Charge devices under a pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.
- Store or charge your devices near your primary exit. If these devices catch on fire, you will not be able to escape.
- Put your lithium ion batteries in the trash.
Always
- Use the charger that came with your device.
- Look for a “UL” mark on your devices and chargers. Products that do not have this mark may not have been safety tested, could pose a fire hazard, and are not allowed in residence hall rooms.
Recycle Responsibly
Lithium ion batteries cannot be thrown in the trash. Here’s what to do:
- Put clear packing tape over the contact points of the battery.
- Recycle lithium ion batteries separate from other types of batteries
- Visit the City of Madison website for complete recycling instructions and to find your nearest drop-off site.
Residence Hall Lithium Ion Battery Guidelines
- A maximum of 8 grams total of lithium metal batteries are allowed in residence hall rooms.
- A maximum of 1000 Watts per battery for lithium-ion batteries are allowed in residence halls rooms.
- Residents are not allowed to dismantle or undertake repairs to any type of battery in their residence hall.
- Residents can only use battery chargers that were intended to be used for the particular battery that is being charged.
Be safe. Stay informed. Visit MadisonFire.org