VIDEO/PHOTOS: The FDNY on Wednesday lit a lithium-ion battery on fire to demonstrate how dangerous that kind a blaze can be if not handled properly.
“We want the public to know, to be aware that it’s a danger,” FDNY Chief of Operations John Esposito said during the demo at the Randall’s Island Fire Academy. “And just be aware of what they’re charging in their house.” So far this year, the Fire Department has attributed over 130 structural fires to the batteries, most commonly seen in e-bikes and smartphones. Esposito suggested refraining from charging the batteries overnight and near the front door, so as not to lock yourself in your home in the event of a blaze.
“It explodes and it shoots the cells of the battery throughout the apartment or throughout the area,” Esposito explained.