Spring Hill, FL – Tuesday, June 17 – Hernando County Fire Rescue responded to a residential fire on the 1200 block of Venetia Drive in Spring Hill Tuesday afternoon. Heavy smoke was observed emanating from the garage upon arrival. Fire crews employed an aggressive offensive strategy, successfully extinguishing the fire.
The fire was caused by the explosion of lithium-ion batteries stored in the garage. Two occupants and one pet evacuated the residence safely. No injuries were reported. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Facts About Lithium-Ion Batteries:
- Lithium-ion batteries power most modern devices, including smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles, due to their high energy density and rechargeability.
- These batteries can store up to 150-200 watt-hours per kilogram, nearly double the capacity of older nickel-cadmium batteries.
- Overheating, overcharging, or physical damage can trigger thermal runaway, a chemical reaction causing fires or explosions, as seen in this incident.
- Globally, lithium-ion battery fires account for a growing number of incidents, with over 200 reported in the U.S. in 2024 alone, according to fire safety data.
- Recycling lithium-ion batteries recovers up to 95% of valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, reducing environmental impact.
Store lithium-ion batteries in cool, dry, non-flammable containers, away from heat sources. Use only compatible chargers, refrain from overcharging, and never leave devices unattended while charging. Regularly inspect batteries for damage, such as swelling or leaks, and recycle them at designated facilities to ensure safety and environmental protection.
