Electrical Safety Tip

Lithium-ion battery charging and disposal

Lithium-ion batteries can ignite after being discarded in household trash or ordinary recycling bins.

A testing mark from a nationally recognized laboratory helps identify battery-powered products tested to safety standards.

Lithium-ion battery packs need specialist repairs. USFA advises using a certified repair facility.

Use the charger supplied by the device manufacturer. Plug charging equipment directly into a wall outlet instead of an extension cord or multiplug adapter.

Before buying a rechargeable device, check for product recalls and a recognized safety-testing mark on both the product and its packaging.

Take used lithium-ion batteries to an approved collection site. Tape exposed terminals and check local disposal instructions; keep batteries out of household trash and curbside recycling.

Source: U.S. Fire Administration, Lithium-Ion Battery Safety for Electronic Devices ↗

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