UL Research Institutes promotes battery safety with Take C.H.A.R.G.E.
UL Research Institutes has launched its Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety guidance on lithium-ion powered devices as holiday technology gifting and travel increase in the US.
The organisation noted that lithium-ion batteries now power smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, electric vehicles, power tools, toys and home energy systems.
According to UL Standards & Engagement, an average of two flights per week experienced lithium-ion battery incidents in 2024.
The data also showed that most travellers carry four lithium-ion battery-powered devices, with smartphones carried by 81% of passengers, laptops by 40%, wireless headphones by 38% and tablets by 35%.
UL Research Institutes reported that 50% of Americans say they do not know anything about lithium-ion batteries.
It added that 60% of travellers remain unaware of how common lithium-ion batteries are in everyday devices and of the dangers linked to damaged, counterfeit or improperly charged products.
The organisation stated that lithium-ion batteries store energy more densely than traditional batteries, and that damaged, overheated or improperly charged units can be at risk of catching fire.
Take C.H.A.R.G.E. campaign on battery safety
UL Research Institutes said the Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety campaign is designed to improve public understanding of lithium-ion risks at home and in transit environments.
Nicole Sanders, Public Education Lead for UL Research Institutes, said: “Recent spikes in lithium-ion battery incidents in transit environments have underscored the need to expand public education.
“To improve public safety, we’ve developed clear guidelines for how to ‘Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety’ at home and on-the-go using best practices informed by response data and firefighter testimonials.”
The organisation explained that the guidance sets out practical steps for handling, charging and storing lithium-ion devices.
It added that the campaign emphasises keeping devices visible when charging, particularly while travelling.
UL Research Institutes also highlighted the need to keep lithium-ion battery-powered devices out of checked luggage.
The campaign frames the Take C.H.A.R.G.E. actions as an interconnected set of measures rather than standalone tips.
Key Take C.H.A.R.G.E. safety messages
UL Research Institutes advised that users should choose lithium-ion battery-powered devices that have been certified by a nationally recognised testing laboratory so they meet defined safety requirements.
The organisation recommended that people follow manufacturer instructions, use the charger supplied with the device, avoid modifying batteries or chargers and charge only in locations away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight and flammable materials.
It added that devices should never be charged under pillows, blankets or inside bags and that users should unplug devices at home and check size limits set by transit providers before travelling.
UL Research Institutes stated that people should regularly inspect devices for swelling, punctures, unusual sounds such as hissing or popping, excess heat, unfamiliar odours or white or grey wispy smoke, which indicates immediate fire danger.
If these warning signs appear, the organisation said users should unplug the device immediately, stop using it and keep it in sight when travelling or charging.
It advised that lithium-ion battery-powered devices and gifts should not be placed in checked bags.
The organisation said that devices and batteries must not be placed in public rubbish bins or abandoned when travelling and that recycling routes should be used instead.
UL Research Institutes explained that if there is a fire, people at home should follow their escape plan, leave immediately, shut doors behind them and call 9-1-1.
It recommended that people create and practise a home escape plan and, in public spaces such as transit hubs, identify exits and escape routes so they can evacuate quickly and alert authorities if a device shows warning signs.
The organisation stated that people gifting battery-powered devices should share the Take C.H.A.R.G.E. guidance, encourage safe charging and travel practices and remind travel companions to keep devices in carry-on luggage rather than checked bags.
UL Research Institutes noted that the full Take C.H.A.R.G.E. guidance is presented as a set of linked steps which reinforce one another, and that following them can reduce risk in homes and workplaces, with further information available at batteryfiresafety.org.