Fire caused by lithium-ion battery prompts warning from York Area United Fire and Rescue

The York Area United Fire and Rescue department is warning residents about the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries in a recent Facebook post about a fire apparently caused by such a battery.

The post reads:

"In December, one of our fire stations received a telephone call from a contractor / homeowner who was completely renovating a home. The contractor stated he came to the jobsite that morning and discovered that a fire occurred overnight in the residence from what appeared to be a lithium-ion battery for a cordless drill. At the scene, it was discovered that a lithium-ion battery which was in the drill, exploded overnight and ignited debris inside a plastic bucket sitting on the living room floor. Moreover, the lithium cells from the battery were discovered all throughput the first floor having punctured a hole in the ceiling, dented a steel door approximately 10-15' away from the ignition point and landing in a back bedroom. Additional cells were found inside the upper kitchen cabinets to the back of the home. It was obvious the home was charged with smoked as smoke damage was visible on all levels."

The post also lists best safety practices for lithium-ion batteries:

"1 . Use only batteries designed for the specific product.

2. Store and charge in a cool dry place.

3. Do not over charge, this could cause overheating. Take off charger when fully charged.

4. Avoid exposing to oils and EXTREME heat and cold.

5. Do not clean with solvents.

6. Do not use batteries with visible damage.

7. Do not leave batteries on charger when you are away from the home or asleep.

8. Store batteries away from combustibles.

9. Take batteries out of power tools when storing.

10. Dispose of properly. Contact your local refuse center with any questions on disposal."

This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: Fire caused by a lithium-ion battery prompts fire department warning