A Fresno family safely evacuated their home Thursday morning after a lithium-ion battery from an electric scooter charging overnight began sparking and smoking, according to the Fresno Fire Department.

Firefighters responded, removed the battery, and the electric scooter before the situation escalated or caused significant damage, the department said.

The fire department said the incident serves as a reminder that lithium-ion battery fires continue to increase across the country. The batteries are commonly used in e-bikes, electric scooters, tools, cellphones, and other rechargeable devices.

While lithium-ion batteries are generally safe when used properly, damaged, defective or improperly charged batteries can fail and ignite without warning, according to the department.

The Fresno Fire Department urged residents to use only manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers, avoid charging batteries longer than necessary, disconnect chargers once charging is complete, charge batteries on hard, noncombustible surfaces and keep batteries away from exits, combustible materials, and direct sunlight.

The department also advised anyone who notices a battery smoking, sparking, swelling, or emitting an unusual odor to move away from it and call 911.

—

Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email.