2 Columbia house fires within a week caused by lithium-ion batteries

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A pair of house fires in Columbia during the past week were caused by lithium-ion batteries, the Columbia Fire Department wrote in a Monday afternoon press release.

The first occurred at 2:10 p.m. Thursday in the 4600 block of Connery Court in southwest Columbia. Crews saw flames coming from the garage and attic. It was brought under control within 40 minutes. Two people were in the home, but no injuries were reported.

The second occurred at 12:26 a.m. Monday in the 5400 block of Baseline Place. Crews saw flames burn the outside of a duplex and the attic above a garage, the release says. The fire was under control within 10 minutes. No injuries were reported.

The release says that both fires were ruled accidental and were caused by lithium-ion batteries. Those type of batteries can be found in smartphones, power tools and video game consoles, the release says.

“When not in use, store lithium-ion batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources,” the release says. “Avoid storing them in extreme temperatures, as this can degrade battery performance and increase the risk of malfunction. If a lithium-ion battery becomes damaged, swollen or punctured, refrain from using it and dispose of it properly.”