The Auburn Fire Department is urging electric bike and scooter owners to take precautions when charging and storing their devices, warning that damaged or defective lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode.
A safety notice from the department and the National Fire Protection Association says battery fires burn extremely hot and release toxic gases.
Owners should use devices, batteries and charging equipment listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. They should use only the battery and charger designed for and supplied with their device.
The notice advises owners to stop charging once a battery is fully charged and charge only one device or battery at a time to avoid overloading a circuit.
Temperature and storage conditions also matter. Batteries should be kept at room temperature when possible and should not be charged below 32 degrees or above 105 degrees.
Owners should avoid storing batteries in direct sunlight or hot vehicles and keep them away from children and liquids. Bikes, scooters and batteries should also be stored away from exit doors, heat sources and materials that could catch fire.
Warning signs include unusual odors, discoloration, excessive heat, changes in shape, leaking, smoking or a battery that no longer holds a charge. Anyone noticing those problems should stop using the device.
Repairs should be performed by a qualified professional. Lithium-ion batteries should never go in the trash; owners should take them to a battery recycling location or contact their local waste department for disposal instructions.
If a fire occurs, the department advises leaving the building immediately and calling 911. Residents should not try to fight the fire.
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