PCARES - Lithium Battery Safety

Lithium-ion Battery Fire Safety

Lithium-ion batteries are used in various devices, commonly powering cell phones, laptops, tablets, power tools, electric cars, and e-micro mobility devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters . Lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy and can pose a threat if not treated properly.

Given the nascent industry and lack of federal standards for e-micro mobility products, a number of the batteries in these devices are or become defective and can overheat, catch fire, or explode. In 2023 alone, there were 268 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, many of which were used to power e-bikes.

General Safety Tips:

When purchasing devices, look for the Underwriter Laboratories (UL) Mark. The UL mark shows that the product has been tested to nationally recognized safety standards.
Follow the device manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage. Always use the manufacturer’s cord and power adapter made specifically for the device.
When purchasing a new battery, buy the manufacturer’s battery that is compatible with your device. Do not seek alternative battery options.

Battery & Device Dos:

If possible, charge your device outside.
Keep your batteries and device at room temperature.
Plug your device charger directly into a wall outlet.
Store and charge batteries away from anything flammable.
Monitor your battery for any odors, changes in shape or color, leaking, or odd noises.
If you notice any of these conditions, discontinue use immediately. If it is safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch fire and call 9-1-1.

Battery & Device Don’ts:

Do not charge your device near exits and points of egress, including your apartment door, bedrooms door, and windows (particularly near a window with a fire escape).
Do not charge your device in your bedroom.
Do not charge your device on any surface other than the floor.
Do not place your battery or charge in direct sunlight.
Do not charge using an extension cord.

Battery Disposal:

Putting lithium-ion batteries in the trash or recycling at home is illegal.
Recycle batteries by taking them to a Special Waste Drop-Off Site. Visit California Batteries for disposal instructions and more disposal options near you.
Individually bag batteries or tape ends before disposing of them.

Can I fly with Lithium Batteries

Yes, you can generally fly with lithium-ion batteries, but there are restrictions based on their watt-hour rating (Wh) and whether they are installed in a device or carried as spares. Generally, lithium-ion batteries with a rating of 100 Wh or less can be carried in both carry-on and checked baggage. For batteries exceeding 100 Wh but not more than 160 Wh, airline approval is required, and they must be carried in carry-on luggage. Batteries exceeding 160 Wh are generally forbidden. Spares must be packed in carry-on luggage and protected from damage and short circuits.

Lithium-ion batteries installed in devices (like laptops, cell phones, etc.):

These are allowed in carry-on or checked baggage, provided they are fully powered off and protected from accidental activation.

Spare lithium-ion batteries (power banks, etc.):

These must be carried in carry-on luggage and can be no more than 100 Wh without special airline approval. Batteries exceeding 100 Wh but not more than 160 Wh require airline

approval and must be carried in carry-on luggage.

Lithium metal batteries:

These are also allowed, but the lithium content is limited to 2 grams per battery for spare batteries and 0.3 grams per battery for batteries in devices.

Smart luggage with batteries:

Only smart luggage with batteries that can be easily removed (without tools) are allowed. If the battery can be removed, it must be removed and carried in carry-on luggage, following the

same rules as spare batteries.

How many Watt-hours of batteries am I allowed to carry-on for aircraft?

Please refer to the link below. Print out the sheet below when flying, and also take a copy of your FCC Ham Radio license with you. Mention you are a ham radio operator with radio equipment and batteries, with the printed sheet and copy of your FCC license.

https://www.faa.gov/hazmat/packsafe/lithium-batteries

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse