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Call 911 to report a fire or any emergency situation that might cause danger to life or personal property.

Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries found in electric bikes and scooters, cars, laptops, tablets, phones and common household devices.

Lithium-ion battery fires have caused deaths, serious injuries and devastating damage to property around the city. It’s important to follow proper storage, charging, and disposal guidelines for these types of batteries.

You should always purchase and use devices certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL), such as:

  • Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL)
  • Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc. (ITSNA)
  • NSF International (NSF)
  • CSA Group Testing and Certification Inc.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for:

  • Charging and storage
  • Using the correct battery, cord, and power adapter
  • Plugging directly into a wall electrical outlet for charging
  • Keeping batteries and devices at room temperature
  • Storing and/or charging batteries away from anything flammable
  • Keeping away from heat sources
  • Bringing batteries to a NYC battery recycling center (visit the Battery Recycling page for more information)

Never:

  • Use generic batteries or chargers unless it is specifically approved for your product
  • Plug into a power strip or overload an outlet
  • Overcharge or leave a battery charging overnight
  • Charge a battery or device under your pillow, on your bed or near a couch
  • Leave e-bikes or e-scooters unattended while charging
  • Block your primary way in or out of a room/space with e-bikes, e-scooters, wheelchairs, etc.
  • Place batteries in trash or recycling bin; it is illegal

You can get more information online and by phone.

Online

Learn more about lithium-ion battery safety.

Learn about battery disposal rules from the Department of Sanitation.

By Phone

Call 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (212-639-9675) for assistance.

Email FDNY.BusinessSupport@fdny.nyc.gov to report improper storage, charging, or disposal of lithium-Ion batteries.

What Happens Next

Your report will be referred to the appropriate Fire Prevention Unit. FDNY will review the report and possibly inspect the location by the next business day. 

You may get a response anywhere from 24 to 72 hours after submitting your report.

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