Lithium Battery Fires At Home
E-bike, scooter and phone batteries can start fast, hot fires. Here's what to do after one, and how to prevent the next.
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After A Battery Fire
- Leave and call 911. Battery fires can reignite.
- Don't touch the damaged battery.
- Photograph the device and receipts, since your insurer may ask about the cause.
Insurance And Claims
Homeowners and renters policies usually cover fire damage no matter the cause. If a product was defective, keep it, since your insurer may pursue the maker.
Preventing The Next One
- Use the charger that came with the device.
- Don't charge overnight or while you're away.
- Charge on hard surfaces, away from exits.
- Stop using batteries that swell, leak or get hot.