Are lithium-ion batteries dangerous? What you need to know about identifying a damaged battery

We are increasingly using lithium-ion batteries. They are found in many devices such as electric bikes, scooters, e-scooters, and (power) tools. This is a positive development, but it also poses a challenge.

One of those challenges is recognising a broken or damaged battery, especially because it is sometimes not visible from the outside that something is wrong inside. When you put a defective battery on the charger, it can catch fire. This can lead to a very intense battery fire with toxic smoke gases being released. In some cases, the battery can even explode! In this blog, you will learn how to recognise a damaged lithium-ion battery and what to do next.

How do you know if a damaged battery is dangerous?

• Battery is leaking fluid: If you notice fluid leaking from your battery, that is a clear sign that something is wrong.
• Device gives off (excessive) heat: If your device feels warmer than usual, it is important to be cautious.
• A chemical or burning smell is coming from the device: A properly functioning battery does not give off any smell. If you do notice a chemical or burning smell, that is an indication of a possible problem.
• Signs of fire: If you see smoke or sparks coming from your device, then something is really wrong and you need to take immediate action.

What do you do next with the broken battery?

• Stop charging: If you notice any of the signs above, stop using the device immediately and disconnect it from the charger.
• Place in a special fireproof battery safe. If the battery does catch fire or even explode, the fire and toxic smoke will stay inside the safe, giving you enough time to call emergency services.
• If you don’t have a battery safe, take the device outside. Only do this if you can do it safely!
• Call emergency services: If smoke development or fire occurs, call emergency services immediately!

Do not underestimate the danger of lithium-ion batteries

It is important to know the signs of a defective lithium-ion battery and to act quickly when you suspect something is wrong. The tricky part is that you don’t always notice when a battery is defective inside. By investing in a battery safe that keeps the fire inside, you protect your property from consequential damage and ensure the safety of your staff. This also gives you enough time to alert the fire brigade.

Check out our solution for safely charging lithium-ion batteries with Batteryguard battery safes!