⚠️ Li-ion Battery Failures Happen—Even When They're Not Reported

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are everywhere—and while they are generally safe, they can fail when not used, stored, charged, maintained, or disposed of properly.

Most people associate battery failure with fire—and when a fire occurs, first responders are called, and the incident is reported. But not all battery failures involve flames. Many failures start subtly, with signs like:

• 🔥 Swelling

• 🌡️ Overheating

• 🚨 Odd smells

• 📦 Changes in shape or appearance

These warning signs are often not reported, and that presents two serious problems:

1. We lack accurate data on how frequently Li-ion batteries fail, limiting our ability to track and prevent future incidents.

2. People may ignore early warning signs, unaware that these devices could be on the verge of catching fire or releasing toxic fumes.

Failure to recognize and act on these signs puts everyone nearby at risk.

🧠 Knowledge is Prevention

It's critical to:

• Understand the early signs of Li-ion battery failure

• Know what immediate actions to take

• Track and share incidents—even minor ones—to improve awareness and safety

✅ Need Expert Training?

Kevin Doyle Consulting offers safety training for schools, businesses, and organizations. Our programs include:

• 🔋 Li-ion battery safety

• 🚨 Emergency response protocols

• 🛡️ Prevention and best practices for science/STEM environments

📧 Contact us today to schedule a customized training session.

Let’s ensure your staff, students, and team know what to do—before it’s too late.