🔥 YOUR BATTERY MAY WARN YOU BEFORE IT FAILS 🔥 Lithium-ion batteries don’t always fail without warning

 
By Clay County Fire and Rescue
October 2, 2026
 

Knowing what to look for can help you recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency.

⚠️ Watch for:

• A battery or device becoming unusually hot
• Swelling or a change in shape
• An unusual smell
• Leaking
• Popping, hissing, or other unusual sounds
• Smoke

If something doesn’t look, smell, or sound right — stop using it.

Never continue charging a battery that appears damaged, and don’t try to modify or repair a damaged battery yourself.

And remember: old lithium-ion batteries don’t belong in your household trash. They can be damaged or crushed during collection and processing, creating a serious fire hazard.

Phones and laptops aren’t the only things to think about. Power tools, lawn equipment, toys, e-bikes, scooters, battery packs, and countless other devices around our homes now use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

Safe charging really can be a superpower. ⚡

#FirePreventionWeek #BatterySafety #FireSafety