How to Tell If Your Battery Is About to Explode
There is a non-zero chance that your device’s lithium battery could explode. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that there were at least 25,000 battery-related fires between 2012 and 2017, and are still happening . In 2023 alone , 200 fires involving lithium-ion batteries have been reported in New York City. Sure, some of these fires may be due to your dog using your phone as a chew toy , but those rechargeable batteries can—and do —spontaneously explode and catch fire .
The good news is that there are warning signs that your rechargeable device’s battery may explode.
Battery warning signs
Batteries work by using chemical reactions to move electrons from one material to another, and this chemical reaction can go wrong under different conditions, but there are usually warning signs:
-
Heat. Batteries generate heat during normal operation—for example, your phone can heat up to 95 degrees under normal conditions and feel warm to the touch. But if your device is too hot to touch, it’s a sign that something is wrong. If you know your device is unusually hot, it may be about to explode.
-
Swelling. Lithium-ion batteries can swell due to heat and gas buildup . Bloating itself doesn’t necessarily mean your battery is about to explode, but if your device shows any other signs besides bloating, get ready to go.
-
Smoke. White or gray smoke is a sign that the battery is about to explode . If you see any steam coming from your device, it is best to assume that you are about to see fireworks.
-
Sound. Batteries heading into fireworks often make a hissing or bubbling sound.
If you notice one or more of these warning signs, it’s best to assume your battery will catch fire immediately and take steps to protect yourself.
What to do if your battery is about to explode
If you suspect that one of your batteries may explode, take the following steps immediately:
-
If you see smoke or sparks , leave the area.
-
Take care of your hands. Do not handle the device with bare hands. Find something you can use: For smaller devices, you can use tongs, or use oven mitts, towels, or literally anything that can act as a buffer between you and the small bomb you find in your home.
-
Turn off and unplug your device. Unplug it and turn off the device if you can.
-
Move the device carefully. Do not push or throw the device. Carefully move it to an isolated area where the flames can be contained—an area with a concrete floor, such as a garage, or an outdoor sidewalk. If you have a fireproof safe or document safe, you can place the device in it, but you should still move it to a location as far away from your living space as possible.
If the unit catches fire, you can use a standard fire extinguisher ( Class D if you have one ) or spray water from a hose to suppress the flames. If it is a large device, such as an e-bike, it is best to call your local fire department.