In the age of electronics, students are heading to college campuses with more electrical and battery-powered devices than ever.
As part of Campus Fire Safety Month, dorm electrical safety and proper handling of lithium-ion batteries should be some of the first lessons students learn this semester.
September is a peak month for campus fires. From 2020 to 2024, U.S. fire departments responded to over 3,000 structure fires in dormitories and other student housing, including fires caused by lithium-ion batteries often found in laptops, phones, e-bikes and e-scooters.
When damaged, improperly charged or exposed to extreme temperatures, these batteries can overheat, catch fire or even explode, resulting in serious injury or death. Of fires reported to The Center for Campus Fire Safety, 11% resulted in injuries requiring medical attention, respiratory treatment or post-incident counseling services.
Lithium-ion battery safety tips:
- Store and charge lithium-ion devices safely: Keep rechargeable batteries away from heat, direct sunlight and flammable materials. Do not leave them charging unattended or overnight.
- Know the signs of battery trouble: If a battery swells, smells strange or becomes very hot, stop using it. Recycle damaged batteries properly and never throw them in the trash.
- Use the correct charger: Use the charger designed for your device and plug it directly into an outlet, not an extension cord or adapter. Always charge on a hard, flat surface with good airflow.
- Keep doors and hallways clear: Don’t store e-mobility devices where they can block escape routes or fire department access.
Other dorm safety tips:
- Don’t overload outlets: Too many devices plugged into one outlet can trip breakers or start fires. Avoid using power strips with higher-power devices such as appliances.
- Inspect cords and plugs during move-in: Damaged cords can cause electrical shock or spark fires. Look for frayed wires, bent prongs or scorch marks.
- Keep electronics away from water: Water near electronics can create a shock hazard. Keep appliances away from sinks, humidifiers and open windows.
For more information, visit sce.com/staysafe.
Communications around electrical safety are funded by ratepayers.
