CFO Shares EV Fire Safety PSA to educate the public and raise awareness of emerging battery fire hazards 

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis highlights the risks of lithium-ion battery fires during the holiday season and provides tips to prevent fire-related incidents as Floridians celebrate the season with family and friends. In collaboration with the University of Miami (UM) Sylvester Cancer Center and the Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative, the Division of State Fire Marshal is also sharing a lithium-ion battery safety Public Service Announcement (PSA) to educate and arm the public with tools and resources to combat these emerging fire hazards. To watch and download the PSA, please click HERE.

CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, "Lithium-ion batteries power many of the gifts we exchange and use daily, from smartphones and tablets to electric scooters and toys. While they bring convenience and joy, mishandling or improperly storing these batteries can pose significant fire risks, especially during the busy holiday season. This initiative aims to give Floridians with the knowledge to protect their families, homes, and holiday celebrations from preventable hazards. Thank you to the UM Sylvester Cancer Center, the Florida Fire Chief's Association, the Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative, and firefighters statewide for their dedicated support of fire safety initiatives and leading the way to help save lives in our state."

Florida Division of State Fire Marshal Director JoAnne Rice said, "We are proud to partner with the University of Miami and other statewide partners on this important fire safety initiative. Lithium-ion battery fires can escalate rapidly and are challenging to extinguish. Raising awareness about prevention is crucial to keeping Floridians and first responders safe, especially during the holiday season."

Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative President Christopher Bator said, "This campaign is critical in addressing the growing risk of battery-related fires in Florida. We’re thrilled to support CFO Patronis and firefighters statewide in ensuring communities across our state are informed and prepared this holiday season."

Florida Fire Chief's Association President Chief Michael Choate said, "Improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries is a major environmental and fire safety concern. We applaud the CFO’s leadership in bringing attention to this issue and will continue to look for ways to educate and inform Floridians on fire safety and staying vigilant as these new fire dangers emerge in our communities."

Safety Tips for Lithium-Ion Battery Use

1. Avoid Overcharging: Do not leave devices plugged in after they are fully charged.
2. Purchase Certified Products: Always use manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers.
3. Inspect Devices: Replace damaged or swollen batteries immediately.
4. Safe Storage: Keep batteries away from flammable materials, and store them in cool, dry places.
5. Emergency Plan: If a battery starts overheating or smoking, move it to a non-combustible surface, evacuate the area, and call 911.

Electric Vehicle Fire Safety

Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity, making up 6.8% of U.S. motorized vehicles. While EV fires are rare compared to gas-powered vehicle fires, they present unique hazards:

• Toxic Chemical Release: EV fires release over 100 dangerous chemicals, including heavy metals, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen cyanide.
• Prolonged Fires: Lithium-ion battery fires take longer to extinguish and can reignite, exposing firefighters and the public to extended risks.

Protecting First Responders and the Environment

Research led by the Sylvester Firefighter Cancer Initiative in Florida highlights the dangers of EV fires to firefighters and the environment. Findings include:

• Health Hazards: Prolonged exposure to toxic emissions increases cancer risks for first responders.
• Environmental Impact: Chemicals from EV fires can contaminate air, soil, and water.

How You Can Help

• Report EV Fires Quickly: Notify emergency responders immediately in case of an EV fire.
• Stay Clear: Maintain a safe distance from EV fires to avoid inhaling toxic emissions.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about the risks and share information with others.

Proper Disposal and Recycling

• Do not throw lithium-ion batteries in regular trash.
• Take used batteries to designated recycling facilities to prevent fires and recover valuable materials.
• Keep batteries away from flammable materials during storage or transport.

Commit to Fire Safety This Holiday Season

Together, we can reduce the risks of lithium-ion battery and EV fires. 

For more lithium-ion battery safety resources, visit www.BatteryFireSafety.org or contact your local fire department.