Gilbert Fire & Rescue is reminding residents to take precautions when using and storing lithium-ion batteries after responding to 15 battery-related fires since 2024 — 10 last year and five so far this year.

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in devices such as cellphones, e-bikes, power tools and electric vehicles. Officials said fires can occur when batteries are damaged, overcharged, completely drained or exposed to extreme heat or cold.

The department encourages residents to follow the acronym C.H.A.R.G.E. to help prevent battery fires:

Choose certified products and handle them with care.

Hand with care by always following manufacturer instructions and using only approved charging equipment. Recharge safely by avoiding overnight charging and keeping large devices like e-bikes

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