Lithium Ion Batteries Continue to Cause Harm
Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) batteries have been a hot topic in the news for some time now. Most recently, Li-Ion powered headphones exploded mid-flight, which resulted in minor burns to the user on her hands and face. Within the last 12 months, there have been recalls from HP, Toshiba and Samsung for fire and explosion hazards that arise with the Li-Ion batteries used within their devices. Over the last year, there has also been concerns regarding the Li-Ion batteries used to power hoverboards. Tragically, a recent fire, that is believed to be caused by the Li-Ion batteries within a hoverboard, claimed the life of a young child. We have said it before, and will say it again — when will alternative methods be found to power these devices?
The hazards associated with Li-Ion batteries are nothing new. Li-Ion batteries have been known to pose fire and explosion hazards since 2006. PC Pitstop even commissioned an experiment to expose the risk of Li-Ion batteries in 2006. In 2013 they did a repeat of the experiment, showing additional measures were not implemented to enhance the safety of these batteries.
At some point, something needs to be done. These batteries have not only put people’s lives in danger, but have claimed the life of a young child. In a world where technological advancements happen daily, there has to be an alternative power solution.
