Bucks County fire officials are warning residents that lithium-ion batteries in phones, e-bikes and laptops can overheat and catch fire.

The warning comes during Fire Prevention Week, which runs Sunday, Oct. 4, through Saturday, Oct. 10. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) chose "Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower" as this year's theme, the organization announced on Sept. 23.

Local fire companies are holding open houses and demonstrations tied to the campaign, BUCKSCO.Today reported. The Central Bucks Fire Prevention Expo caps the week Saturday, Oct. 10, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Central Park, 425 Wells Road, Doylestown.

Admission is free.

What is thermal runaway?

Thermal runaway happens when a battery generates heat faster than it can release it. The heat jumps from cell to cell, releases flammable gases and can trigger a fast-moving fire or explosion, according to fire officials cited by BUCKSCO.Today.

Physical damage, short circuits, excess heat, manufacturing defects and improper charging can all set it off.

A battery fire can also reignite after it appears to be out.

The NFPA does not yet track national data on home fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. But fire departments across the country are reporting a growing number of incidents, the association said.

Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of outreach and advocacy, said in a Sept. 23 statement that many people are unaware of the risks because the technology is relatively new. She said the campaign aims to help residents make informed choices and build simple habits to reduce those risks.

Safe charging tips

Fire officials recommend these steps:

  • Use only the charger and battery approved for the device.
  • Charge on a hard, flat surface away from anything flammable. Never charge on a bed, couch or under a pillow.
  • Charge while awake and nearby so trouble can be spotted early.
  • Keep batteries out of direct sunlight and hot cars.
  • Charge larger items like e-bikes, scooters and power tools outside when possible. Do not block exits while charging.

Warning signs of a failing battery include swelling, leaking, strange odors, odd noises and excessive heat. If a battery starts smoking or burning, leave the area immediately and call 911. Do not try to pick it up or carry it outside.

How to dispose of old batteries

Old lithium-ion batteries should never go in household trash. Bucks County's Household Hazardous Waste program accepts lithium, rechargeable, button and lead-acid batteries at free drop-off events open to residents.

The next collection is Oct. 24, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Strayer Middle School, 1200 Ronald Reagan Drive, Quakertown. No registration is required, and the event runs rain or shine. Damaged batteries should be packed in sand or kitty litter before drop-off, according to fire officials.

The county's Household Hazardous Waste program is a service of the Bucks County Board of Commissioners and participating municipalities and is not open to businesses or institutions.