Lithium-ion battery fires prompt safety warnings from fire departments

Fire departments in Richland and Victoria are issuing safety warnings following incidents involving lithium-ion battery fires. In Richland, emergency services contained a fire caused by a rechargeable massage gun that had undergone thermal runaway. The device was not plugged in or in use for months at the time of the incident.

In Victoria, officials reported seven lithium-ion battery-related fires this year, noting that batteries were often charging, short-circuited, or tampered with when the fires began. To mitigate risks, authorities recommend using manufacturer-approved chargers, charging on flat, hard surfaces, and unplugging devices once fully charged.

Users are advised to immediately stop using any device that becomes excessively hot, swells, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds. Keeping exits clear when charging large items like e-bikes or power tools is also recommended to ensure safe egress during an emergency.