One Common Habit Could Increase Your Fire Risk

Take a quick walk into your garage.

Rechargeable batteries have become part of everyday life, powering everything from cordless drills to e-bikes, scooters, lawn equipment, and even children's ride-in toys. You may even have one plugged in right now.

According to the Carmel Fire Department, that simple habit is contributing to a growing number of house fires involving lithium-ion batteries and charging equipment.

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Smoke Filled the Garage

Earlier this week, firefighters responded to a home after smoke filled the garage.

The cause wasn't a vehicle or a grill.

It was batteries that had been left charging.

Fortunately, someone noticed the smoke early enough for firefighters to respond before the situation turned into a much larger fire.

Read More: Airline Sets New Lithium-ion Battery Limits for Passengers

Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Can Be Dangerous

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the tools and devices we use every day, from cordless drills and lawn equipment to e-bikes and electric scooters.

Charging these batteries isn't inherently dangerous, but firefighters say the problems can occur when:

• Batteries are left charging long after they're full.
• Damaged batteries or chargers were used.
• Batteries are charged near combustible materials.
• Charging equipment is not used according to the manufacturer's instructions.

When a lithium-ion battery fails, it can generate intense heat and ignite nearby materials very quickly.

How to Charge Batteries Safely

The Carmel Fire Department recommends following a few simple safety tips:

• Charge batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Unplug them once they're fully charged.
• Charge batteries in a well-ventilated area.
• Keep charging batteries away from anything that can burn.
• Never use damaged batteries or chargers.

Take a Minute Tonight

Most of us don't think twice before leaving a battery charger plugged in overnight or while we're away from home.

But as more homes fill with rechargeable tools, lawn equipment, bikes, and other electronics, firefighters say it's worth taking a few seconds to unplug anything that's finished charging.

That quick walk through the garage could help prevent a much bigger problem.