VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Virginia Beach firefighters demonstrated lithium-ion battery safety risks during a public demonstration Monday, showing residents what happens when these common batteries are improperly stored and overheat.

The demonstration comes ahead of National Fire Prevention Week, which begins next week. Firefighters used the event to educate the community about the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries, which are found in everyday items including cell phones, power tools and electric vehicles.

A captain with the Virginia Beach Fire Department explained the safety considerations surrounding these batteries during the demonstration.

"In general, the batteries can be considered safe," Captain Kevin Lehlbach said. "Rarely is a battery sitting alone to cause the shed to burn

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