Lithium battery fire safety on campus

Lithium battery fire safety on campus

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day — phones, laptops, e-bikes and more. While convenient, these batteries can pose serious fire risks if not handled properly.

Overheating, overcharging or physical damage can cause them to catch fire or even explode. By learning how to buy, charge and recycle these batteries safely, you can help prevent fires on campus and at home.

Products that may contain lithium batteries

  • E-bikes and scooters
  • Laptops and tablets
  • Smartphones
  • Smartwatches and fitness trackers
  • E-cigarettes/vapes
  • Wireless headphones
  • Cordless vacuum cleaners
  • Drones
  • Toys

Using lithium batteries safely

  • Unplug when charged: Disconnect devices once they’re fully charged to prevent overheating
  • Store products safely: Keep them in cool, dry places away from flammable materials
  • Charge carefully: Always charge on a flat, hard surface
  • Use the right charger: Only use the charger that came with your device and follow the manufacturer’s instructions
  • Look for warning signs: Stop using the device immediately if the battery smells strange, gets too hot, makes popping noises or changes shape or colour

Recycle lithium batteries responsibly

You can recycle lithium batteries on campus. Look for the beige, dome-topped recycling containers or use the campus map to find designated battery recycling locations.

Before dropping off your batteries:

  • Tape the terminals of lithium-ion batteries to prevent short circuits.
  • Ensure batteries are not connected to any devices or wires.

Have large lithium-ion batteries that don’t fit in the recycling bins? Email [email protected] for safe disposal instructions.

Help keep our campus safe and sustainable by disposing of batteries the right way!