Kamloops reminded of do’s and don’ts of lithium battery use

KAMLOOPS — After a number of reports out of the Lower Mainland of fires caused by lithium batteries, Kamloops Fire Rescue has a safety reminder for residents.

Lithium ion batteries are a common power source in electronic equipment, and when they’re used improperly, the consequences can be destructive.

In recent years, Kamloops Fire Rescue has responded to a number of battery-related calls. And often, according to Life Safety Educator Jeff Pont, those fires have more to do with how someone is charging or handling the battery than the technology itself.

“They’re in everything. Some examples from calls we’ve dealt with — some electronic wheelchairs have lithium ion batteries, remote control cars and boats and things like that,” explains Pont. “You have people who make their own lithium ion batteries as a hobby, which we recommend against. And a big one out there right now, you drive around Kamloops and we’ve got a lot of hills so everyone is on e-bikes.”

E-biking is a popular activity powered by lithium batteries, and CFJC went down to Kamloops E Ride to learn the do’s and don’ts of battery use.

Don Miller of Kamloops E Ride says, when charging lithium batteries, it’s best to leave them uncovered on a flat surface and to avoid leaving batteries plugged into a charger for days on end. They’re a safe technology and problems shouldn’t arise with proper use.

“The manufacturers of the batteries, they basically tell you…how to charge them. As long as you follow that to the best of your ability, usually there are not going to be any issues,” he explains.

It’s also important to make sure that the charger you’re using is actually made for the specific battery.

“Well, some people might think bigger is better — it’s going to be quicker. They’ll plug that in but that (battery) is probably not made to accommodate a four-amp charger,” Miller explains. “Once again, there’s where the issues can arise.”

At the end of the day, one of the most effective tools to prevent a battery related accident is free to use, and available to everyone — common sense.

“Dispose of them properly, charge them properly and don’t look for cheaper options. If you’re going to commit to electric, then use manufacturer-approved,” adds Pont.