A 14-year-old boy was on a camping trip in Colorado when his flashlight’s lithium battery, which he was storing in his pocket, exploded, causing second and third-degree burns to his leg. Jennie McCabe, the boy’s mom, said her son needed skin graft surgery.
“His extra battery was in his cargo pocket, and they were playing a game at the campsite, and it exploded,” McCabe told FOX 31 Denver News.
A member of the local fire department told FOX 31 Denver that these things happen, and campers should keep a close watch on their rechargeable devices.
“If you leave your lithium battery, or any battery for that matter, on the charger too long, it’ll get too hot and it can spontaneously combust,” Lt. Shannon Hardi said.
Learn more about the flashlight battery that exploded here:
Tips to Avoid Battery Explosions and Fires
The International Association of Fire Fighters provides the following advice for preventing lithium battery-related explosions and fires:
- When you’re buying a device, make sure it’s certified.
- Keep your batteries separate from each other—at least 2 feet apart.
- Don’t charge lithium-ion batteries overnight, and be sure to use the charger that came with them. Don’t use extension cords, power strips, or chargers meant for other devices.
- When you’re storing your devices, choose a safe location. Don’t block doors or hallways and keep them away from exits. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, moisture, or extreme weather conditions.
Did you know about the risks associated with rechargeable lithium batteries in camping equipment like flashlights?