Ways to protect against lithium-ion battery fires

A lithium-ion battery fire can be a real danger regardless of the type of device it powers - whether it's an electric scooter, electric bicycle, laptop, cell phone or other electronic equipment. Explosions and fires related to batteries of this type occur all over the world, which underscores the importance of proper handling and care of these devices. In this article, we will discuss how best to ensure safety in the context of using and storing devices powered by lithium-ion batteries.

Safety certification
Whenever you buy a device that contains a lithium-ion battery, make sure it has a safety certification, like the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) mark, which indicates that the product has passed rigorous safety tests. For devices with a lithium-ion battery, the UL mark should not only be on the device, but also on the battery, motor and charger.

Charging and storage
When charging your device, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use original cords and power supplies. Avoid using extension cords, which can change the level of electrical resistance. The battery should never be charged on a bed, couch or under a pillow. It is recommended to keep the battery charge level between 10%-80%, if possible. Also, batteries should not be exposed to direct sunlight. If the battery is charged after contact with water, make sure it is completely dry before connecting it to the charger. If possible, avoid using devices powered by lithium-ion batteries at temperatures below -5 degrees Fahrenheit (about -20 degrees Celsius).

Responding to emergency situations
If you notice that the battery is excessively hot, makes disturbing noises, emits an unusual odor, changes shape or color, take action immediately. If it is safe to do so, move the device away from any flammable materials and call for help.

Disposal of batteries
Proper handling of used batteries is also extremely important. Do not throw them in the trash or try to recycle them yourself. Instead, use the services of specialized recycling facilities. The Call2Recycle organization runs a program with more than 50 e-bike manufacturers to recycle old batteries free of charge.

Risks in stores with lithium-ion battery-powered devices
Stores that sell and repair lithium-ion battery-powered devices should also follow the above-mentioned rules. Unfortunately, improper storage, charging or disposal of batteries sometimes causes fires. In 2023, a fire at an electric bike store in New York City killed four people and seriously injured two others. A week later, the FDNY (New York City Fire Department) discovered dozens of lithium-ion batteries stored in unsafe conditions, calling the situation a "ticking time bomb." Let's remember that responsible use of devices powered by lithium-ion batteries is the responsibility of all of us. Let's take care of our safety and the safety of others by following the rules for the safe use, charging, storage and disposal of these devices. Storage of electrical devices such as scooters requires special care due to the potential fire hazard. Here are some tips for safe storage of electric scooters:

Storage location
It is recommended to store the scooter away from flammable materials. The safest place is an open outdoor space where a possible fire will not cause major damage.

Avoid bringing into buildings
If possible, avoid bringing the scooter inside buildings. Because of the risk of fire, this is the safest solution.

Storage on the balcony
If outdoor storage is not possible due to the risk of theft, a balcony can be an alternative. However, make sure that the scooter is protected from the weather and does not pose a danger to other building residents.

Using a fire cover
If none of the above solutions is possible, you should definitely consider storing your scooter in a fire protection cover, such as the one offered by E-WESTA. These covers are specially designed to limit the development of fire and reduce the risk of explosion in the room.

However, we should remember that none of these measures completely eliminate the risk of fire. Therefore, we should always follow safety instructions, regularly check the condition of the equipment and avoid storing scooters near flammable materials.

In an era of increasing incidents involving phone fires while charging, often caused by unsafe practices such as charging devices under a pillow while sleeping, it is becoming essential to adopt proper precautions.

One of the safest habits we can develop is to place our charging phone in a specialized protective case, such as the E-WESTA Box. Designed with safety in mind, this case is resistant to fire and battery explosions, effectively minimizing the risk of fire.

The E-WESTA Box is more than just an ordinary cover - it is a specialized safety solution that, in the event of a battery explosion, can limit the development of fire and minimize damage. In addition to safety, the E-WESTA Box also provides convenience, allowing you to charge your phone without removing it from the case.

However, we should remember that the E-WESTA Box is only one part of an overall approach to safety. We should always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for charging our devices, use only certified chargers and cables, and regularly monitor the condition of our batteries. With proper care, the risk of fire while charging your phone can be greatly reduced.