The City of New York Fire Department issued a warning to the public on May 1st regarding the risks of lithium-ion battery fires and the significance of proper charging and storage procedures.

Lithium-ion battery fires can quickly worsen in a matter of seconds, posing a major threat to people's lives and property, according to officials. In order to lessen the risk of fire in homes and businesses, the department urged citizens to charge and store batteries outside whenever feasible.