WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) – Batteries that power everyday objects such as e-bikes, scooters, and electric cars can pose a dangerous threat, especially to firefighters. According to the West Lafayette Fire Department, there has been an increase in the number of fires caused by batteries, particularly among Purdue campus students.
Fires ignited by lithium-ion batteries from e-bikes, scooters, and electric cars are becoming a more frequent problem. While lithium batteries are generally safe and resistant to damage, as long as they are charged and stored properly and do not have any manufacturing defects, they cannot be extinguished with water. A malfunctioning battery cell can explode and quickly spread the fire.
Tony Schutter, Deputy Chief of the West Lafayette Fire Department, has noticed an increase in the number of fires when students were charging their scooters and e-bikes in their campus residences. Electric cars are also at an increased risk.
“We’re seeing this more and more because electricity is becoming ubiquitous and there will be more of it. The biggest challenge is that we cannot extinguish this type of fire, especially with larger batteries powering electric cars. It presents a unique challenge for us in dealing with growing threats,” said Schutter.
There are several ways to prevent fires and explosions when using lithium-ion batteries:
– Store them at the appropriate temperature.
– Do not store fully charged batteries for long periods.
– Use metal containers for battery storage.
– Charge lithium-ion batteries in a safe place and use a charger recommended by the manufacturer.
Schutter also emphasizes the importance of directly plugging the charger into the socket instead of using extension cords.
FAQ section:
1. What poses a threat to firefighters regarding batteries?
– Batteries powering e-bikes, scooters, and electric cars can pose a dangerous threat, especially to firefighters.
2. What increasingly common threat is associated with lithium-ion batteries?
– Fires caused by lithium-ion batteries from e-bikes, scooters, and electric cars are becoming a more frequent problem.
3. Are lithium-ion batteries safe?
– Primarily, lithium-ion batteries are safe and resistant to damage, as long as they are charged and stored properly and do not have any manufacturing defects.
4. What are the methods to prevent fires and explosions related to lithium-ion batteries?
– Store batteries at the appropriate temperature.
– Do not store fully charged batteries for long periods.
– Use metal containers for battery storage.
– Charge lithium-ion batteries in a safe place and use a charger recommended by the manufacturer.
5. What should be avoided when using a charger?
– It is advisable to avoid using extension cords and instead plug the charger directly into the socket.
The source of the article is from the blog trebujena.net