Back to School Lithium Battery Safety

As Summer comes to a close and students head back to school, it’s important to be mindful of lithium battery safety. Lithium batteries power many of the electronics and devices students rely on. From laptops and tablets to calculators and voice recorders, lithium battery-powered devices have become a regular part of education for all ages. While these batteries are generally safe, improper use or storage can pose fire and explosion risks.

Read a popular article about Lithium Batteries Catching Fire here.

It’s important to be cautious not only when using these lithium battery-powered devices but also when storing and packing them on the way to class. By avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures, physical stress, and moisture, students can avoid the risks associated with lithium batteries.

Lithium Battery Safety Tips for Students

By prioritizing lithium battery safety, students can help prevent dangerous incidents and ensure a smooth and productive return to the classroom. Below are some safety tips:

Only use the battery that is designed for the device.
Put batteries in the device the correct way.
Only use the charging cord that came with the device.
Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.
Charge devices on a flat, stable surface and never leave them unattended while charging.
Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.
Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C).
Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.
If a battery appears to be swelling, leaking, or behaving abnormally, discontinue use immediately.
Never place batteries in the Trash or Recycling bin.

Remember, like any product, a small number of these batteries can be defective. They can overheat, catch fire, or explode. So not only is it important to follow these safety tips, but also to know the signs of a defective battery. Usually, if a battery is about to catch fire, it will feel extremely hot or swell up (the device may look like it has a lump or bulge). If you notice these signs, do not touch the device with your bare hands and seek qualified personnel to attempt to extinguish the fire. At ICC Compliance Center, we offer a product called Extover, which is designed to extinguish lithium battery fires.

Do you have questions about Lithium Batteries? Take a look at our Lithium Battery FAQ, or contact our team of experts at 855.734.5469 or send us an email, we’re happy to help.