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Overheated Batteries

Take immediate action when a battery is visibly overheating.

Overheated and melted battery with cordless drill.

Safe Handling of Overheated Lithium-Ion Batteries

A lithium-ion battery that is too hot to touch, melting, smoking, or on fire, may be in thermal runaway. This can be caused by abusing or misusing the battery such as dropping, puncturing, or damaging the battery, or exposing it to liquids. This video will demonstrate the proper action to take should a lithium-ion battery be in thermal runaway.

For a battery with flame or a battery with signs of overheating (e.g. smoking, smoldering or melting), immediate action is required.

  • If the battery is connected to a battery charger, always unplug the battery charger first.
  • After unplugging the battery charger, then:
    • For a battery with signs of overheating, pour copious amounts of water on the battery and then submerge the battery (including any attached tool or charger) in a sturdy container filled with water. When transferring the battery, avoid direct contact with the battery (e.g. use a long-handled shovel) and use appropriate personal protective equipment to protect your face, hands and body, since there is a risk that overheated batteries may vent, explode or emit flame.
    • If the battery is exhibiting flames, continue using copious amounts of water until the flame is extinguished, then submerge the battery (including any attached tool or charger) in a sturdy container filled with water.
    • If water is not available, dirt, sand or a conventional ABC extinguisher may be used in an attempt to smother and cool the battery (including any attached tool or charger) until water is available.
  • Keep the battery (including any attached tool or charger) submerged, in an outdoor location, for at least 24 hours and at least 15 feet away from any combustible items.

Contact the power tool manufacturer for further instructions.

Revised Spring 2021

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