E-Bike, E-Scooter and Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

The popularity of electric bikes and electric scooters (e-bikes and e-scooters) has taken off over the past few years.  Lithium-Ion batteries are usually the source of power for both, and if not used correctly, or if damaged, those batteries can catch on fire or explode.  Lithium-Ion batteries also supply power to many other kinds of devices, including smart phones, e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, toys and even cars. There are important safety tips to keep in mind when charging or storing any of these devices.  

The Problem

• These batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space.  Lithium-Ion battery fires give off toxic gases and they burn extremely hot.
• Sometimes batteries are not used the right way; batteries not designed for a specific use can be dangerous.  And like any product, a small number of these batteries are defective.  They can overheat, catch fire or explode.

Safety Tips

• Only purchase and use devices, batteries, and charging equipment that are listed by a nationally recognized testing lab and labeled accordingly.  And always follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
• Only use the battery and the charger that were designed for and came with that device.  Do Not keep charging the device or the device battery after it is fully charged, and only charge ONE device or device battery at a time to prevent overloading the circuit.
• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible.  Do not charge them at temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C).  Do not store batteries in direct sunlight or inside hot vehicles and keep them away from children and liquids.
• Store e-bikes, e-scooters and batteries away from exit doors and anything that can get hot or catch fire.
• Only have device repairs performed by a qualified professional.
• Do Not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash.  Recycling is always the best option.  Take the batteries to a battery recycling location or contact your local waste department for disposal instructions.
• When charging an e-bike, make sure to charge the battery in a flat, dry area away from children, direct sunlight, liquids, tripping hazards, and in a location where the e-bike is not at risk of falling.

Signs of a Problem

Stop using the e-bike, e-scooter or any device if you notice any of these problems with the battery:  unusual odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, odd noises, leaking, smoking, or not keeping a charge.  If it is safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch fire. Call 9-1-1.