Lithium-ion batteries have been around for decades, but in recent years they’ve been made with new technology and used in electric bikes and scooters – a move done at low cost and low quality.

Unfortunately, the new lithium-ion batteries are causing injuries and claiming lives.

As of October 2023, the Fire Department of New York reported 216 fires that were the result of lithium-ion batteries. The battery fires in New York resulted in 120 personal injuries and 14 deaths.

One lithium-ion battery fire happened at an e-bike store in June, killing four people who were in the New York store.

The New York City Council this year passed a law prohibiting the sale of battery devices and batteries that are not UL-certified.

New Jersey also has seen fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. In 2023, the  New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Division of Fire Safety began a safety campaign to raise awareness about the safe use and disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries are being used in devices such as smartphones, laptops, e-cigarettes, e-bikes, and cars due to their ability to store a significant amount of energy in a small space, according to a statement from the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety.

The batteries also can pose risks when exposed to high temperatures or handled improperly, they said.

The number of fire-related deaths due to batteries is climbing.

An example, there were 30 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries with no deaths in New York in 2019, the FDNY reported. In 2022, firefighters responded to 220 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, and six deaths were reported.

Fire officials blame most of these explosions, burn injuries, and deaths on types of poorly manufactured batteries used for micro-mobility devices like e-bikes and electric scooters.

When left to charge overnight, a chain reaction called “thermal runaway” – an ejection of gas at extremely high temperatures - can take place in the battery.

For personal safety, while using and charging lithium-ion batteries, the National Fire Protection Association recommends:

• Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

 • Use only the battery that is designed for the device.

 • Put batteries in the device the right way.

 • Use only the charging cord that came with the device.

• Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.

 • Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.

• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C).

• Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.

Cooper Levenson is a full-service law firm established in 1957. The firm includes 70 attorneys with offices in Atlantic City and Cherry Hill, N.J.; New York, N.Y.; Wilmington, Del.; Fort Lauderdale, Fla, and Las Vegas, Nev. Call Cooper Levenson Personal Injury Lawyers at (609) 572-7788.