Batteries are found in many household items like e-bikes, e-cigarettes, toys, tools, electronics, phones, tablets, and home décor. Whether your item uses a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery, think about fire safety when using and charging your device.
When a rechargeable battery malfunctions and overheats, it can cause a fire. These fires can last a long time and be hard to put out, even if they start in a small device like a phone or toy.
If you see a lithium-ion battery fire, leave the area, close the door, and call 9-1-1 from a safe outdoor location. Lithium-ion batteries can catch on fire and re-ignite even once you think the fire is out.
Store batteries safely
Store batteries at room temperature in their original packaging and away from anything that can catch fire until you are ready to use them. Avoid storing in direct sunlight.
Don’t store batteries loose in a drawer or container. If battery posts touch something metal they could short circuit and catch on fire. This risk is greater with 9-volt batteries because the posts are close together.
Follow the instructions
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing batteries or recharging batteries. Only use the batteries and the charging cord designed for the device.
Keep an eye on your charging items
Avoid charging a device on a soft surface like a bed, couch, or under a pillow. If the battery overheats, it could cause a fire. Always charge devices on a hard surface like a table.
Stop using the device if the batteries give off too much heat, make odd noises, change shape or colour, leak, or appear corroded.
Avoid charging a device in front of an exit door. If that item catches fire, the fire may block your exit.
Dispose of batteries safely
Never put batteries in your garbage or recycling carts. Not only do they contain hazardous chemicals, they could catch fire if they touch other metal.
The safest place to bring dead batteries or electronics is a 4R Winnipeg Depot where they will be disposed of or recycled.
You can drop off disposable batteries in Winnipeg libraries. Place dead batteries in separate plastic bags or tape the posts before you put them in the plastic bag.