A lithium-ion battery that was charging started a fire Tuesday afternoon at the Batteries Plus on Tamiami Trail in Port Charlotte, causing major damage to the store. Charlotte County Fire & EMS arrived shortly after 1 p.m. to find the battery on fire and other batteries exploding inside. No injuries were reported, and investigators determined the fire was accidental.
The incident is a reminder of how common these batteries have become. They power phones, laptops, tablets, e-bikes, power tools, and cordless vacuums in homes across the Suncoast, and most of us charge something every single day without thinking twice. Fire officials say charging on a hard, stable surface and keeping batteries away from combustible materials makes a real difference. Never charge a device under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch.
Warning signs of a failing battery include excessive heat, unusual odors, popping sounds, smoke, or a change in shape. If you notice any of these, unplug the device and move it away from anything that can burn if it’s safe to do so.
Where in your home do you charge your devices, and is it actually a safe spot?
