Mercer County Prosecutor goes public on lithium-ion battery hazards

The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office is issuing a public safety campaign this week focused on the hazards of lithium-ion batteries, warning residents that failure to handle powered devices properly can lead to sudden fires and drastically reduce escape times during a home emergency.

The initiative coincides with Fire Prevention Week, observed nationally from Oct. 4 through Oct. 10.

Authorities emphasized that while lithium-ion batteries power a vast array of everyday technology — from smartphones and laptops to e-bikes and power tools — they can quickly become unstable if punctured, swollen, improperly charged or exposed to extreme heat. That instability can cause devices to overheat, spark or explode without warning.

“Many people don’t realize the tech gadgets around their home are powered by lithium-ion batteries that can become unstable,” officials from the prosecutor’s office said, adding that rapidly progressing fires involving synthetic furnishings can leave residents with less than three minutes to escape.

A fire involving a larger device, such as an e-bike or electric scooter, can reduce safe evacuation time to less than one minute.

As part of the outreach, the prosecutor’s office highlighted a public service announcement launched by UL Research Institutes through its “Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety” campaign.

The initiative is designed to show families the amount of stored energy inside household devices and demonstrate safe storage and usage practices.

Officials released several guidelines to help residents prevent battery-related fires:

Select certified products: Purchase only devices and replacement components certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Handle and charge safely: Use manufacturer-supplied chargers, follow user guidelines and charge devices on hard surfaces away from direct sunlight, extreme cold or flammable materials. Never charge electronics under pillows, blankets or inside bags.

Travel responsibly: Keep devices in view or packed in carry-on luggage when traveling, and never place lithium-ion batteries in checked baggage.

Recognize warning signs: Immediately unplug and stop using any device that shows signs of swelling, punctures, unusual heat, strange odors or hissing and popping sounds. Wispy white or gray smoke indicates an imminent fire danger.

Dispose of batteries properly: Do not discard lithium-ion batteries in household trash bins or public garbage cans because crushed batteries can ignite in waste trucks or facilities. Use official recycling locations.

Evacuate quickly: If a battery ignites, immediately leave the home or building, close doors behind you to contain the spread and call 911. Officials urge every household to establish and practice an emergency escape plan.

The prosecutor’s office encouraged residents to share battery safety practices with family members and travelers, particularly when buying or giving battery-powered electronics as gifts.