Consumers warned to be careful with lithium-ion batteries after Hartung fire

MOSCOW — Following a fire at the University of Idaho’s Hartung Theater, the Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding the public how to safely care for lithium-ion batteries.

An improperly discarded lithium-ion battery from a power tool sparked a small blaze at the theater May 10, Idaho State Fire Marshal Knute Sandahl said in an interview. He added the battery had been thrown away because it was no longer functional.

The fire damaged the loading dock and a box truck parked nearby. It caused exterior damage and smoke damage to the inside of the building, Moscow Volunteer Fire Department Chief Brian Nickerson said. No one was hurt, he added.

Lithium-ion batteries supply power to a variety of devices, like smart phones, laptops, e-scooters and e-bikes, e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, toys and cars, according to a news release Tuesday by the fire marshal’s office.

These batteries are known for storing a large amount of energy in a small amount of space. If used incorrectly or damaged, they can catch fire or explode, according to the news release.

To safely care for these batteries, fire marshals recommend storing batteries away from anything flammable, store them at room temperature and not charge them at temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or above 105 degrees.

They shouldn’t be charged under a pillow, on the bed or a couch, and when the device is fully charged they should be taken off the power supply, according to the news release.

Batteries should be charged only with the cord that came with the device, and be used only for the device it was designed for. People are advised to purchase devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Also, they are advised against disposing of these batteries with common trash, and instead giving them to specialized battery recyclers or retailers that participate in take-back services, according to the news release.

Signs that there may be a problem with these batteries include rapid discharge or the device losing power quickly after a full charge. Frequent charging due to reduced capacity is common as these batteries age, and is a tell-tale sign they might need replacing, according to the news release.

Overheating might happen during use of the device or charging. According to the news release, some heat is common, but abnormally high temperatures could cause internal issues with the battery, affecting performance and posing safety risks.

Swelling or bulging of the batteries is a prominent red flag. This is caused by an accumulation of gas inside the battery that could make the battery leak or explode, according to the news release.

“Lithium batteries require special attention,” Sandahl said in the news release. “Although they may seem to be safe, they can still pose a risk of fire, especially if they are damaged. Idahoans who follow these safety tips can protect themselves from the devastating effects of a lithium battery caused fire.”

Pearce can be reached at epearce@dnews.com