Batteries Might Give You a Warning

Staff Report

Clay County Fire & Rescue is urging residents to watch for early warning signs that a lithium-ion battery is failing, before a device turns into a fire.

The department said these batteries do not always fail without warning. A battery or device that becomes unusually hot, swells or changes shape, gives off an unusual smell, leaks, or makes popping, hissing, or other odd sounds should be treated as a problem. Smoke is an obvious emergency signal. If something does not look, smell, or sound right, stop using it.

Officials also warned against continuing to charge a battery that appears damaged, and against trying to modify or repair a damaged battery at home.

Disposal is part of the risk. Old lithium-ion batteries should not go in household trash. They can be crushed or damaged during collection and processing, which can start a fire.

The warning is not limited to phones and laptops. Power tools, lawn equipment, toys, e-bikes, scooters, battery packs, and many other household devices now run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

Clay County Fire & Rescue’s message is straightforward: recognize the signs early, stop using a battery that seems off, and keep damaged or spent lithium-ion batteries out of the regular trash.