Lithium-Ion Batteries: Everyday Convenience, Hidden Fire Risks

Powering modern life — but at what cost?

In 2026, convenience is key. Across the U.S., homes are filled with products powered by lithium-ion batteries. From e-bikes that replace short car trips to toothbrushes that track your dental hygiene, our world has become increasingly electrified.

Lithium-ion batteries first entered the consumer market in 1991 when Sony introduced them in camcorders. Since then, they have revolutionized how we live, offering compact size, high energy density and long battery life. Today, they power everything from smartphones to electric and hybrid cars. But with this convenience comes risk: lithium-ion batteries can fail, overheat and in some cases ignite dangerous fires.

Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere

When you take a tour of your home, you may be surprised by how many devices rely on lithium-ion batteries:

• Bathroom: toothbrushes, razors
• Office: laptops, cellphones, smartwatches, Bluetooth headphones, smart speakers
• Garage: power tool batteries, wireless speakers, e-bikes, jump-starters, electric vehicles
• Kitchen: cordless vacuums, portable power banks, flashlights
• Living room: toys and other consumer electronics
• Safety devices: 10-year smoke alarms (often use lithium-ion cells) and other sensors

This widespread use highlights both the importance of the technology and the potential fire risks it brings into our daily lives.

Why safety matters

Every product carries some inherent risk, but lithium-ion batteries present unique hazards:

• Overheating and thermal runaway: If internal safety features fail or design flaws exist, batteries can bulge, leak or ignite.
• Unsafe chargers: Low-quality cords or chargers often lack built-in safety features like overcurrent or thermal protection.
• Heat buildup: Charging on soft surfaces or blocking ventilation increases fire risk.
• Water exposure: Flooding or spills can trigger chemical reactions leading to battery failures, even days later.

In 2022, a Pennsylvania house fire caused by a hoverboard battery claimed the lives of 2 children, leading to the recall of more than 53,000 units. Fires involving lithium-ion batteries can produce very hot jet flames and once started, they are extremely fast and difficult to extinguish.

2 types of danger

Lithium-ion batteries pose dual threats:

1. Fire risk: Electric vehicle battery fires can require large amounts of water to extinguish.
2. Toxic emissions: Burning batteries release harmful chemicals that threaten nearby civilians, first responders and the environment.

Staying safe with lithium-ion batteries

You don't need to avoid lithium-ion devices, but you do need to use them responsibly. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommends the following:

• Use only original or certified replacement chargers and charging cables. Avoid low-cost knockoffs that lack important safety features.
• Charge safely. Place devices on solid, flat surfaces. Don't charge devices in direct sunlight or leave unattended, when possible.
• Store smart. Keep e-bikes, scooters and power tools in dry, ventilated spaces away from flammable materials and building exits.
• Watch for damage or signs of failure. If a battery is smoking, hissing, punctured or swollen, stop using it immediately.
• Recycle responsibly. Never throw batteries in the trash. Many retailers offer free recycling. Check The Battery Network for locations near you.

A call to action

Lithium-ion batteries will continue to power our future and demand for devices powered by lithium-ion batteries and other emerging types of batteries is expected to increase. By recognizing the risks and following safe handling practices, we can enjoy the convenience of these powerful devices while protecting our homes and families.

Take a tour of your house today. Identify your lithium-ion devices, adjust how you use and store them, and share these tips with loved ones. Small changes now can prevent dangerous incidents later.

Learn more about battery safety on the USFA's Lithium-Ion Batteries page.