Lithium-Ion Battery Fires in NYC: Causes, Prevention, and Policies You Need to Know

By Kelly Guzman, Fire Safety Technician

Lithium-ion batteries power everyday devices, from smartphones to e-bikes and e-scooters, but they’re also a leading cause of fires in New York City. Over 170 fires have been linked to these batteries, making them a serious safety concern. Due to their rapid spread and the flammable materials often involved, these fires are challenging to extinguish and dangerous.

The Danger of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

1. Why Are These Fires So Dangerous?

Lithium-ion battery fires are classified as Class B fires (involving flammable liquids). Once ignited, they can escalate into Class A and C fires, especially in indoor spaces with other combustible materials. These fires are notoriously difficult to control because of the properties of lithium-ion cells, which can explode or reignite even after initial extinguishment.

2. How Do Fires Start?

Common causes include:

Overcharging batteries.
Using damaged or substandard batteries, often sold in unauthorized e-bike shops.
Leaving batteries unattended during charging.

These factors can lead to physical stress on the battery, increasing the risk of ignition.

3. The Numbers Don’t Lie

268 fires, 18 deaths, and 150 injuries in NYC have been linked to lithium-ion batteries.
While the number of fires between 2023 and 2024 remained similar, injuries and deaths significantly decreased, partly due to a shift in where these fires occur—more outdoors than indoors.

Preventing Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

Consumers are encouraged to follow these guidelines to ensure safety:

Avoid Unauthorized Shops: Use only reputable vendors to purchase and service e-bikes.
Monitor Charging: Never leave batteries charging overnight or unattended.
Understand Battery Lifespan: Most e-bike batteries last 3 to 5 years. Overused batteries are more prone to failure.
Store Responsibly: Keep devices with lithium-ion batteries in well-ventilated areas, away from flammable materials.

Policy Updates: Keeping NYC Safer

Both Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, as well as NYC, have implemented policies to address the risk:

Weill Cornell Medicine

As of October 2024, WCM prohibits e-bikes and e-scooters in all owned or leased spaces. Outdoor parking is available for these devices at:

Lasdon House Terrace (420 East 70th Street)
Olin Hall Courtyard (445 East 69th Street)

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital

NYPH also updated its policy, effective December 2, 2024, to ban these devices from all NYPH indoor spaces. Designated outdoor bike racks have been identified for use at all locations.

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The NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) has provided additional outdoor bicycle rack locations for use. View the bicycle rack locations here or scan the adjacent QR code.

FDNY's Efforts to Combat Frankenstein Batteries

The FDNY has vowed to crack down on "Frankenstein batteries" (dangerously modified or low-quality batteries) through rigorous inspections across all five boroughs. These efforts aim to penalize businesses promoting unsafe battery practices and reduce fire risks.

Enjoying E-Mobility Safely

While e-bikes and e-scooters offer significant convenience and sustainability benefits, responsible usage is key. To prevent accidents, follow safety protocols, charge batteries responsibly, and store devices in designated areas.

Let’s be "E-ager" to enjoy e-mobility safely, ensuring these devices remain a boon and not a hazard.

Sources for More Information

Refer to official publications and local safety flyers for more details on the dangers of lithium-ion batteries and electric mobility devices.