Safer Power, Safer Home: The Do's and Don'ts of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Date Modified: 2026/01/22

TL;DR – Safe use of lithium-ion batteries

Manufacturer's recommendations: The safest setup is the manufacturer's, so stick to their recommended charger/cable, avoid off-brand batteries, and no DIY modifications or knock-off replacements.
Cool and dry: Where you store and charge matters, so store in dry, room-temperature locations, don't charge on soft surfaces where heat can build up, and never leave batteries in hot cars, direct sun or sitting in water.
Warning signs: Immediately stop using if you spot warning signs of failure, including strange smells, unusual heat, popping/hissing, swelling, dents, torn wrapping, or white or grey smoke.

Bottom line: Lithium-iron batteries are generally safe, but be sure to use manufacturer-approved equipment, charge and store properly, and act quickly if you see warning signs.

From smartphones and laptops to e-scooters and electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries are powering more of our daily lives than ever before. With convenience comes a critical need for awareness: while lithium-ion batteries from reputable manufacturers or well-known brands are generally safe, the use of off-brand lithium-ion batteries, improper use or storage can lead to serious consequences.

Fire departments across Canada are reporting a sharp rise in fires linked to lithium-ion batteries¹, some of which have overheated, caught fire, or even exploded. Understanding how to use and store them safely is essential to protecting your home and loved ones.

Keep reading to explore our practical do's and don'ts to help you charge, store, and handle lithium-ion batteries while protecting what matters most.

What are the Risks?

All types of lithium-ion batteries, whether branded or knockoffs, can become hazardous when they are:

Overheated
Stored or charged improperly
Damaged or modified

In these cases, they may:

Catch fire
Explode
Emit toxic smoke

Safety Tips to Help Prevent These Risks

Do:

Read your device's user manual for battery care instructions.
Use the charger and cable that come with your device or one recommended by the manufacturer; don’t use off-brand batteries or chargers.
Unplug devices once fully charged; overcharging can lead to overheating.
Store batteries in a dry, room-temperature location.
Keep devices and batteries away from water. Water can seep into the battery and cause dangerous chemical reactions.
Check airline rules before travelling with lithium-ion batteries.

Don’t:

Charge devices under pillows, beds, or on couches.
Throw lithium-ion batteries away in the trash or recycling can. Check your municipality's guidelines for safe disposal.
Leave batteries in the sun or hot car.
Modify, tamper or build your own battery packs.
Store loose lithium-ion batteries together, they can short circuit.
Non-branded manufacturer lithium-ion batteries (i.e. knock-offs) should be avoided.

Know the Warning Signs

Stop using your device if the battery:
Smells strange
Feels unusually hot
Makes popping or hissing sounds
Appears swollen, dented, or has torn plastic wrapping
Has been recalled by the manufacturer
Emits white or grey smoke

Be Prepared

Before an emergency happens, make sure your smoke alarms are working on every story of your home. If a fire starts due to a lithium-ion battery, exit your home quickly using your home fire escape plan. Once outside, call 911 to report the fire and request emergency services.

Reference Articles:

1 – Government of Canada, Charge unto Fire Safety, Retrieved November 18, 2025, from https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/maple-leaf/defence/2025/10/charge-into-fire-safety.html