STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The New York City Fire Department released a statement cautioning against lithium-ion battery workshops located within homes.

The department recently battled two blazes caused by these workshops: One in Queens, and one in the Bronx.

Both locations had lithium-ion batteries that showed evidence of meddling and occurred a week apart from each other, the statement said.

“When batteries are tampered with, improperly stored, or uncertified, they become ticking time bombs that endanger not only families and neighbors but also the first responders who rush to save them. Worse yet—they’re illegal,” FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said. “The FDNY will continue holding those responsible for creating these dangerous conditions accountable.”

The statement notes that should

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