Battery Safety

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Lithium-ion batteries provide power to many kinds of everyday devices including smart phones, laptops, e-scooters, e-bikes, e-cigarettes, power tools, and toys. Batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space; these batteries can pose a potential fire hazard if not used properly.

Fire Safety Tips

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Use only the battery that is designed for the device.
  • Install batteries in the device correctly.
  • Use only the charging cord provided by the same manufacturer.
  • Do not charge a device on/under your pillow, bed, couch, or other combustible materials.
  • Charge your devices on a hard surface.
  • Do not charge/store transportation devices close to or in your means of egress/exit routes.
  • Do not continue to charge the device and/or battery after it is fully charged.
  • Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 0°C (32°F) or above 40°C (105°F).
  • Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.

  • Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the garbage.
  • Always recycle your batteries.
  • Take batteries to a certified battery recycling location or contact Waterloo Regional Waste Management Division for disposal instructions.
  • Do not put discarded batteries in piles.

Stop using the device(s)if you notice any one of these problems:

  • Swelling or bulging battery: this is one of the most serious warning signs. If the casing or device looks inflated or the back panel is lifting, stop using it right away.
  • Overheating: a device getting warm under load is normal, but excessive, unexplained heat is not
  • Strange smells: a sweet, metallic, or chemical odor coming from the device or battery indicates internal damage.
  • Smoke, vapors, or hissing sounds: these are immediate danger signs. Move away from the device and place it in a safe, fire-resistant area if you can do so safely.
  • Leaking fluid or residue: lithium-ion batteries should not leak. Any residue may indicate dangerous internal failure.
  • Unusual clicking or popping noises: this can indicate thermal or structural stress inside the battery.
Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory
  • UL/ULC (Underwriters Laboratories)
  • CSA 
  • ETL (Intertec Testing Services)

For more information contact fireprevention@cambridge.ca