A Shocking Way Fires Can Start in Your Home

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

Can Batteries Cause a Fire?

The simple answer: yes! This phenomenon has been reported country across the United States. However, unlike AAA, AA, D, and C batteries that have their positive and negative posts positioned at opposite ends, 9-volt battery posts are set next to each other. This can become a potential problem if you place those batteries in that junk drawer along with other metal miscellaneous items such as paper clips, keys, aluminum foil, nail clippers, scissors, and more. When the posts touch metal, it can cause said metal to heat up, and if it is touching a combustible source like steel wool or paper, it can lead to a fire.

Tips for Prevention

• Keep 9-volt batteries stored standing up in a safe place where they can’t be knocked around
• Keep them in their original package or in a battery organizer before use.
  • If you can’t do that, cover both positive and negative posts with electrical tape.
• Never put batteries in a pocket with keys, loose change, or other metal objects.
• Do not store in a drawer loosely or in containers with metal objects or other batteries

In the event your property has been affected by fire or smoke from any source, SERVPRO® of Columbia County is “Here to help.®” If you are in need of our services, please contact us at 706-868-5441.