"One of the leading drivers of recent fires has been lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are in nearly every major consumer product now, including e-bikes, electronic vape devices, cellphones, laptop computers, tablets and many rechargeable battery packs. Consumers can expect to see these batteries in most decorations and devices used heavily during the holiday season. I urge the public to get educated on the proper use of lithium-ion batteries and the dangers we face if batteries are not built or used properly.
“So, what can you do right now? Buy electronics and accessories listed by UL, ETL or CSA, which have been tested for safety. Charge devices safely by placing them on a hard surface clear of clothes, linens and paper. Remove the charger once the battery is full; overcharging is dangerous. Recycle lithium-ion batteries. These batteries easily overheat and catch fire when crushed or smashed in trash bins and dumpsters. Visit
call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you. Watch for warning signs like heat, smoke, bulging or strange noises when charging your devices. This means the battery is failing and may easily ignite and catch fire.”
Haver is the deputy chief for Doña Ana County Fire Rescue, for which he leads the Fire Prevention Division and serves as the county’s fire marshal. He has more than two decades of fire and emergency medical service experience.
Dove Hall, Room 212
305 N. Horseshoe Drive
Las Cruces, NM 88003
