Green Bay Metro Fire Department
GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Green Bay Metro Fire Department is charging into Fire Prevention Week.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on the simple steps people can take to recharge safely. Safe charging means making smart choices every time you plug in.
Many devices used in our daily lives – phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters—run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. If they are damaged or charged the wrong way, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode.
During a press conference Monday, Brown County Hazardous Waste showed how to properly dispose of these types batteries and a local resident shared their experience of a lithium-ion battery fire in their home.
Green Bay fire chief Ray Fuiten says fires caused by these batteries do not behave like other fires; they can be put out and quickly reignite, sometimes causing small explosions.
Officials recommend:
Buy only listed products
- When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
- Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
Charge devices safely
- Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
- If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
- Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
- Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
- If you detect a burning smell or hear a hissing sound, if you can safely do so, unplug the device and stop using it.
Recycle batteries responsibly
- Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
- Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Click here to find a recycling spot near you.
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