CPSC offers tips for cell phone battery safety

Washington – Be careful when purchasing and handling batteries for your mobile device, warns the Consumer Product Safety Commission and CTIA – The Wireless Association.

Mobile devices and smartphones typically use lithium-ion batteries, which can hold their charge longer but are more easily damaged than alkaline batteries, the organizations stated. To help reduce safety hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries, CPSC and CTIA recommend the following:

• Do not use batteries and chargers that are incompatible with your mobile device. Avoid websites not associated with a reputable carrier or manufacturer because they may sell counterfeit or poorly made products.
• Do not let a loose battery come in contact with coins, keys and other metal objects; they can cross the electrical connections.
• Do not crush, puncture or put a lot of pressure on the battery, as this can cause an internal short circuit, resulting in overheating.
• Do not place the phone or batteries in hot areas, such as on or near a cooking surface, appliance, iron or radiator.
• Try not to drop the phone.
• Do not let your mobile device or battery get wet. This can cause the battery contacts or circuitry to corrode and create a safety hazard.