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News Release

Oregon State Fire Marshal Highlights Lithium-Ion Battery Safety During Silverton Demonstration - 10/07/26

SILVERTON, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal, in partnership with the Silverton Fire District, held a fire safety media event and live demonstration today to highlight the risks associated with the misuse or failure of lithium-ion batteries in homes and workplaces. 

 

During the event, agency training staff did a controlled demonstration showing how an overcharged lithium-ion battery can ignite a fire in a matter of minutes and release toxic gases. Firefighters and experts walked the media through warning signs, safe charging practices, and simple things Oregonians and visitors can do to prevent a fire. 

 

“Lithium-ion batteries power nearly everything we use. When they fail, they can fail quickly and violently,” said State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz‑Temple. “Today’s demonstration showed why safe charging and prompt action are critical. If a device overheats, swells, smokes, or produces unusual sounds, move away immediately and call 911.” 

 

Local first responders, including Silverton Fire Chief Bill Miles, emphasized the importance of knowing the dangers these types of batteries pose. Miles noted that as more people use e-bikes, scooters, power tools, and other battery-powered devices, safety education becomes increasingly important. 

 

Here are six important safety tips to share with your viewers: 

  • Use the charger and cord that came with your device or one recommended by the manufacturer. 

  • Charge devices on a hard, flat surface and keep them away from anything that can burn. 

  • Stop using a device if it becomes extremely hot, begins to swell, emits a strange smell, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds. 

  • Never move a device that is showing warning signs. Leave the area and call 911. 

  • Charge larger items, such as e-bikes and scooters, outside or in areas away from exits. 

  • Do not throw batteries or electronic devices in household garbage or curbside recycling. Use proper battery recycling options. 

 

Members of the media who were unable to attend the demonstration can view the full video, including remarks from OSFM leadership and experts, at the link below: 

[Demonstration video and remarks link here] 

 

For more information on lithium-ion battery safety, Fire Prevention Month activities, and downloadable resources, visit firepreventionmonth.oregon.gov.  

 

Oregon State Fire Marshal Highlights Lithium-Ion Battery Safety During Silverton Demonstration - 10/07/26

SILVERTON, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal, in partnership with the Silverton Fire District, held a fire safety media event and live demonstration today to highlight the risks associated with the misuse or failure of lithium-ion batteries in homes and workplaces. 

 

During the event, agency training staff did a controlled demonstration showing how an overcharged lithium-ion battery can ignite a fire in a matter of minutes and release toxic gases. Firefighters and experts walked the media through warning signs, safe charging practices, and simple things Oregonians and visitors can do to prevent a fire. 

 

“Lithium-ion batteries power nearly everything we use. When they fail, they can fail quickly and violently,” said State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz‑Temple. “Today’s demonstration showed why safe charging and prompt action are critical. If a device overheats, swells, smokes, or produces unusual sounds, move away immediately and call 911.” 

 

Local first responders, including Silverton Fire Chief Bill Miles, emphasized the importance of knowing the dangers these types of batteries pose. Miles noted that as more people use e-bikes, scooters, power tools, and other battery-powered devices, safety education becomes increasingly important. 

 

Here are six important safety tips to share with your viewers: 

  • Use the charger and cord that came with your device or one recommended by the manufacturer. 

  • Charge devices on a hard, flat surface and keep them away from anything that can burn. 

  • Stop using a device if it becomes extremely hot, begins to swell, emits a strange smell, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds. 

  • Never move a device that is showing warning signs. Leave the area and call 911. 

  • Charge larger items, such as e-bikes and scooters, outside or in areas away from exits. 

  • Do not throw batteries or electronic devices in household garbage or curbside recycling. Use proper battery recycling options. 

 

Members of the media who were unable to attend the demonstration can view the full video, including remarks from OSFM leadership and experts, at the link below: 

[Demonstration video and remarks link here] 

 

For more information on lithium-ion battery safety, Fire Prevention Month activities, and downloadable resources, visit firepreventionmonth.oregon.gov.