Lithium Battery Blaze Instigates Hazardous Materials Response in Fort Collins
In Fort Collins, Colorado, a fire caused by a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery broke out at a residence on Ranger Drive at 6:54 p.m. Residents reported hearing popping noises and an explosion, followed by a fire in their garage.
The fire was initially extinguished by the homeowner using a fire extinguisher, but it quickly reignited. Realising the danger, the homeowner promptly evacuated the premises and called 911.
Firefighters arrived on the scene and successfully extinguished the fire. However, due to the nature of the fire and the potential hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries, they called in a Hazmat Team for the disposal of the batteries.
Crews submerged the batteries in water before placing them in sealed buckets filled with a granular extinguishing material. This is necessary because damaged lithium-ion batteries can reignite even weeks later, emphasising the importance of proper handling.
The Poudre Fire Authority in Fort Collins recommends several safety tips for using lithium-ion batteries at home:
- Always use manufacturer-approved chargers to prevent battery overheating.
- Charge batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials.
- Do not leave batteries on chargers for extended periods after full charge to avoid overheating or damage.
- Unplug chargers once batteries are fully charged to reduce risk.
These precautions help minimise the risk of fire associated with lithium-ion batteries by preventing overheating and potential thermal runaway.
It is crucial to note that in the case of a lithium-ion battery fire, immediate evacuation is advised, followed by a call to 911. Consumer-grade Class "L" fire extinguishers have not been proven effective or safe for these fires.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety guidelines when handling lithium-ion batteries to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
