| 🔥 Why these fires happen |
| If lithium batteries are damaged, defective, overcharged or get too hot, they can enter something called thermal runaway. This is a chain reaction where the battery explodes violently, burns and spreads faster than most people can react. |
| And no, it’s not just cheap knockoffs. Fires have started in brand-name devices, too. But cheap chargers, off-brand batteries and poor storage make things way worse. |
| đź’» Laptop + device safety |
| Never leave your laptop or phone in a hot car or on a windowsill in the sun. If it feels unusually warm, unplug it and power down. Use a free app like Core Temp (Windows) or Macs Fan Control (Mac) to monitor temps. Over 175°F? Bad news. Got an old phone you’re not using? Don’t toss it in a drawer. Store it in a fireproof bag. They’re $20 on Amazon and worth every penny. Thank goodness airlines have these on board now. |
| 🚲 E-bike safety (big one) |
| Only buy e-bikes with a UL 2271-certified battery. That label means it passed real safety tests. Use the charger that came with your bike. No cheap replacements. Never charge it indoors, especially overnight or when you’re not home. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sun. If your battery smells weird, hisses or bulges, unplug the bike immediately and call the fire department. |
| 🗑️ Don’t trash that battery |
| Got an old phone, laptop or e-bike battery? Don’t toss it in the garbage, it could catch fire. Use Call2Recycle.org to find a place to drop it off near you. It’s quick, easy and your trash won’t explode. |
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