ROME — After a pair of structure fires in recent months caused by lithium-ion battery failure, the Rome Fire Department has some words of warning to people using these types of batteries in their electronic devices and home gadgets.
“It’s a known issue around the country,” warned Rome Fire Chief Thomas Iacovissi.
Fire officials said that lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space. And if these batteries are not used properly, and not used for the device they are specifically designed for, it can lead to energy flare ups that quickly ignite. Officials said there is also a problem if the battery charger is of an off-brand, or not the charger specifically designed to go with that device or battery.
“Sometimes, maybe if you buy a cheaper model, you’ll have an issue,” Iacovissi stated. “Or if there is physical damage to the battery…
