First responders train for lithium battery emergencies
Wayne County Emergency Management Agency Director Barb Pittard applied for and received a grant to train area first responders to deal with the dangers of lithium battery fires and explosions.
Technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and lithium batteries have become integral to people’s daily lives, powering everything from smartphones to bicycles and passenger vehicles. However, the increasing use of these batteries also brings a heightened risk of emergencies including fires and explosions.
Emergency Management Agency Director Barb Pittard and local fire departments recognized the need for first responders to be trained to safely address these situations, especially in communities where battery usage is high.
Pittard and her staff are dedicated to fostering continuous education and training through grants available from the state.
“By applying for these types of training grants, we can ensure that first responders are equipped with the latest knowledge to protect themselves and members of the community from lithium battery incidents,” she said. “It is essential for first responders to understand the challenges posed by these types of batteries and to use the best practices to mitigate a battery fire or an explosion.”
With the increased use of lithium batteries, it is likely first responders will encounter such a situation at some point, and understanding the characteristics and behaviors of lithium batteries is crucial to isolating and extinguishing lithium battery fires safely.
According to Pittard, the subtle signs of lithium battery problems, like a color change, excessive heat and a change in shape, should not be ignored.
“One problem with lithium batteries is that they can reignite hours or days later once the initial fire is extinguished,” she said.
Unlike traditional batteries, lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries can experience thermal runaway, a chain reaction where the battery overheats, potentially leading to additional fires or explosions that can trigger dangerous secondary reactions.
Identifying the type of lithium battery involved — whether it’s from an electric vehicle, consumer electronics or industrial machinery — can significantly influence the response strategy. Each type has its own risks and requires unique handling techniques.
Proper disposal
According to the Stark-Tuscarawas-Wayne Recycling District:
—Cellphones and cellphone batteries can be recycled at various locations including participating Verizon, Lowe’s, Home Depot and Best Buy stores, among other locations. Do not remove the battery from the phone. To safely prepare batteries for recycling, either place each battery in its own clear plastic bag before putting it in a storage container or tape the battery terminals with clear packing tape or nonconductive electrical or duct tape, keeping the label visible to identify the battery type.
—Rechargeable batteries should never be put in curbside or drop-off recycling containers. They can cause fires at the local recycling facility and put recycling workers at risk.
—Modern-day alkaline, carbon zinc and manganese batteries no longer contain mercury. They are classified as nontoxic by the Environmental Protection Agency and can be disposed of in household trash.
—If household batteries are recycled through a mail-in program or retail store, they should be safely prepared for recycling. Keep each battery in its own clear plastic bag before placing it in a storage container or tape the battery terminals with clear packing tape or nonconductive electrical or duct tape. Keep the label visible so the battery type can be identified.
To learn more about proper disposal, visit www.timetorecycle.org.
Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.