09/20/2026
This year’s Campus Fire Safety campaign addresses a growing fire safety challenge on campus: lithium-ion batteries. As their use continues to expand in everything from laptops and phones to e-bikes and e-scooters, so does the importance of understanding how to use and charge them safely.
Lithium-ion batteries store a lot of energy in a small amount of space. When that energy is released in an uncontrolled manner, the battery generates heat, which can turn certain internal battery components into flammable and toxic gases. Lithium-ion battery fires happen for a variety of reasons, such as physical damage (e.g., the battery is penetrated or crushed or exposed to water), electrical damage (e.g., overcharging or using charging equipment not designed for the battery), exposure to extreme temperatures, and product defects.
Remember:
-Review campus policies. Some dormitories have rules about charging micromobility devices like e-bikes and e-scooters. Review your college/university’s policies before using these devices.
-Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a safety certification mark. This means it meets important safety standards.
-Charge devices safely. Only use the charging equipment provided with your device, stop charging once full, and never charge overnight or with damaged chargers/batteries.
-Store devices properly. Keep your batteries away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and flammable items, and never block an exit with charging or stored devices.
