FOND DU LAC, Wis. (WFRV) – A lithium-ion battery is being blamed for a small explosion inside a Fond du Lac residence late Wednesday night, prompting a reminder about battery safety from local fire officials.
According to Fond du Lac Fire & Rescue, crews were dispatched shortly after 11:30 p.m. for a report of an explosion in the living room of a home. Upon arrival, firefighters determined that a lithium-ion battery had been charging in the living room and experienced a thermal runaway, leading to a small explosion.
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The fire was extinguished by the residents before crews arrived. Firefighters confirmed that the incident did not extend beyond the immediate area, though it did cause damage to the floor and wall. No injuries were reported.
Lithium-ion batteries power a wide range of everyday devices, including smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, and power tools. As demand increases, fire officials warn of the growing presence of cheaply made or uncertified batteries and chargers that often fail to meet critical safety standards.
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Fond du Lac Fire & Rescue offered the following battery safety tips:
- Use only batteries and chargers that are UL listed (e.g., UL 1642, UL 2054, UL 62133, UL 2271)
- Purchase products from reputable manufacturers and retailers
- Avoid mixing components such as third-party chargers with unverified batteries
- Regularly inspect batteries for signs of damage, swelling, or overheating
- Never charge batteries unattended or overnight
The department thanked the community for its cooperation and urged continued caution when using and charging lithium-ion batteries.
