Columbia Fire Department warns about lithium-ion battery safety risks
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
The Columbia Fire Department advises being mindful when storing and using devices with lithium-ion batteries after two fires this month that were reportedly caused by them being overcharged and thrown away improperly.
Batteries can be found in various everyday devices like toys, tablets electric vehicles, and vapes.
On Saturday morning, Tiger Nutrition owner Sharon Clasby found her business tablet, which is used for delivery services, broken after the battery expanded.
"We realized that the lithium battery had somehow overheated and popped the back and the front of the device off; they're just bulging," Clasby said. "We did not have a fire, we're very gracious for that because this building shares our space with another popular restaurant."
According to Columbia Fire Department spokesperson Katherine Rodriguez, the department saw six lithium-ion battery fires in 2024. Firefighters have already responded to two this year.
"Nine times out of ten, these batteries are safe if they're certified and you're using them properly, it's just you need to be cognizant of the warning signs," CFD representative Katherine Rodriguez said.
Fires can happen due to damaged batteries, high temperatures and product defects. Rodriguez adds since the batteries produce lots of energy in a small space, uncontrolled heat can ignite parts of the battery.
To properly use and store a lithium-ion battery, it's recommended to use the correct charger for the product and avoid overcharging devices. Most devices have a sensor that prevents overcharging.
Batteries should also be kept away from children and pets because they are dangerous to ingest and puncturing a battery can cause a fire.
When storing devices, it's best to keep them out of direct sunlight and out of high temperatures. If a person come across a battery that is damaged or swelling, they shouldn't attempt to fix it themselves and instead should dispose of it safely.
Boone County Fire Protection District Assistant Chief Gale Blomenkamp said lithium-ion battery fires are uncommon, with the district reporting no lithium-ion fires in the past two years. However, Blomenkamp said it's good to practice responsible use and storage.
Batteries can be disposed at the City of Columbia's Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility on Lakeview Avenue. The facility is open from April through November every first and third Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.
Batteries can also be disposed of at most Lowe's, Staples and Home Depot.
