Lithium-ion battery safety

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used and generally safe. They have built in safety features.

Lithium-ion batteries are in many products, including cell phones, laptops, electric vehicles, and generators. In rare cases, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire, or explode.

A lithium-ion battery can fail due to the following:

• Overcharging: an overcharged battery can rupture, overheat, catch fire, or explode.
• Extreme temperatures: extreme cold and heat can affect battery charging. Keep batteries in moderate temperature conditions.
• Impacts: impacts that cause dents or punctures can lead to dangerous charging situations. These include overheating, catching fire, or explosion.

Follow these safety tips:

• Carefully read and follow all manufacturer instructions and warnings.
• If a battery balloons, swells, smokes, or overheats, stop using and charging it immediately.
• Don't leave a charging battery unattended.
• Use the power adapter meant for your specific product.
• Don't store your battery in direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or under heavy objects.
• When charging, set the battery and power adapter in an open space away from combustible material.
• Don't open or otherwise take apart a battery or its power adapter.