The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) has issued a strong public service announcement (PSA) warning residents against operating home-based workshops involving lithium-ion batteries, citing a sharp rise in dangerous fires linked to the practice.
In August 2025, the FDNY responded to two significant fire incidents within one week, drawing attention to the risks associated with unsupervised battery repair and storage. On August 17 in Queens, firefighters discovered around 100 lithium-ion batteries ablaze in the cellar of a residence at 164-18 Pidgeon Meadow Road, along with multiple micromobility devices and batteries in various states of disassembly.
A few days later, on August 26, in the Bronx at 685 E 233rd Street, FDNY crews found multiple lithium-ion batteries and devices undergoing work at the site of another fire. In announcing the PSA, FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker emphasised the severity of the issue:
“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.”
According to the FDNY, illegal home-based workshops where lithium-ion batteries are built, repaired, or stored in an unsafe manner pose a significant hazard. These practices increase the risk of fast-moving, destructive, and potentially deadly fires, putting both residents and firefighters at heightened risk.
Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn added practical advice for New Yorkers.
“We need every New Yorker to do their part, buy only certified batteries, never attempt makeshift repairs, and report unsafe conditions before tragedy strikes.”
The department urges anyone who becomes aware of suspicious battery-repair operations or unsafe storage conditions to report them promptly by calling 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (212-639-9675).
The PSA campaign is supported by the FDNY Foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the FDNY, which helps fund safety outreach and public awareness initiatives.
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in electric scooters, e-bikes, laptops, and other devices, are highly energy-dense and sensitive to abuse. When damaged, improperly assembled, stored near flammable materials, and when attempted to be repaired by unqualified individuals, they can overheat and ignite rapidly.
A Warning Issued
The FDNY’s advisory emphasizes that these are not merely electronic waste; they pose a genuine fire risk and have significant regulatory implications.
By issuing this PSA, the FDNY aims to raise awareness among residents, encourage safe practices around battery purchase and use, and deter the operation of illegal workshops. With fires linked to misconduct with lithium-ion batteries on the rise, the department says both vigilance and prevention are crucial to protecting communities and saving lives.
Read the Latest Battery News Shaping the Global Power Market.
References
