Lithium-ion powered scooters and bikes make great gifts, but they can also be fire hazards when used improperly. Lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode.
In the first 11 months of this year, the Seattle Fire Department responded to 42 lithium-ion related fires. The majority of the fires were related to micro-mobility devices such as e-bikes and scooters powered by lithium-ion batteries.
How to be safe:
- Only use chargers and cables that came with the device
- Do not charge a device while sleeping
- Do not charge a device under pillows, on a bed or on a sofa
- Do not continue to charge the battery once it is fully charged
- Do not charge or leave electric bikes or scooters near your doors
- Do not place lithium-ion batteries in direct sunlight or keep them in hot vehicles
- Stop using the battery if it shows signs of swelling, physical damage or malfunctions
- Never throw a battery in the trash
How to respond:
- Stop using the device if you notice an odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking or odd noises
- If it is safe to do so, move the device outside and place in a metal container with lid (metal garbage can or pot)
- If a fire starts, immediately leave the area, close the door as you exit and call 911
Learn more about how to safely use, store and dispose of lithium-ion battery devices in our Client Assistance Memo.
