The Chief Fire Marshall of NY Urges Congress to Tackle the Fire Hazard Posed by Lithium-Ion Batteries
In a recent hearing before the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology, Chief Fire Marshall Daniel Flynn of the New York City Fire Department urged House lawmakers to pass legislation mandating safety standards for lithium-ion batteries. Flynn emphasized the urgency of the issue, noting that fires caused by these batteries are more intense and dangerous than traditional fires.
Lithium-ion battery fires have seen a significant increase in New York City, with a staggering 900 percent rise over a four-year period. These fires create conditions that make it difficult for people to escape to safety, as they undergo a series of explosions, release highly toxic gases, and project flaming cells that can spread the fire over great distances. In 2023 alone, these fires caused 268 incidents in New York City, resulting in 18 deaths and injuring 150 people.
One of the major challenges faced by firefighters is the difficulty in extinguishing lithium-ion battery fires. These fires require large volumes of water to suppress and can reignite spontaneously. This poses a significant risk to both firefighters and the general public. To address this growing concern, the New York Fire Department has called on Congress to pass H.R. 1797, also known as the “Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-ion Batteries Act.” This bill aims to establish a consumer product safety standard for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in eBikes, scooters, and other micromobility devices.
Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.), who sponsored the bill, highlighted the surge in injuries caused by lithium-ion battery fires involving eBikes and scooters. He emphasized that these incidents have increased by 900 percent in New York City alone over the past four years. The legislation is also supported by Republican Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, who chaired the recent hearing.
In an effort to address the issue within New York City, Mayor Eric Adams signed a package of bills last March aimed at reducing fires related to lithium-ion batteries. These bills focus on regulating the batteries and providing safety education. However, despite these efforts, the number of fires continues to rise. Chief Fire Marshall Flynn expressed concern that the city cannot regulate devices brought in from outside the area, highlighting the need for national legislation.
The problem of lithium-ion battery fires extends beyond New York City. U.S. Fire Administrator Lori Moore-Merrell emphasized that these batteries pose a national safety issue that puts all Americans and first responders at risk. Moore-Merrell explained that while lithium-ion batteries are an attractive power option for everyday items, their fire risk increases when they are damaged or used, stored, or charged incorrectly. These batteries can cause rapid changes in fire dynamics, leading to shorter escape times and other hazards.
Congressman Torres raised concerns about the quality of lithium-ion batteries and their contribution to the increased fire risks. Moore-Merrell stated that the majority of these batteries in the United States come from South Korea, Japan, and China. She highlighted the challenge posed by the unregulated market, particularly in China. Torres likened this issue to the fentanyl crisis, emphasizing the need for safety regulations to prevent poorly manufactured lithium-ion batteries from saturating the American market.
Passing legislation mandating safety standards for lithium-ion batteries could potentially save lives. Congressman D’Esposito believes that this is a case where it will genuinely make a difference. Congressman Torres expressed hope that his bill would make it to the floor this year, stressing that it is a matter of homeland security. New York City, being ground zero for the lithium-ion fire safety crisis in America, highlights the urgency of addressing this issue on a national level.
In conclusion, the increasing number of lithium-ion battery fires in New York City has prompted Chief Fire Marshall Daniel Flynn to urge Congress to pass legislation mandating safety standards for these batteries. The intensity and danger of these fires, along with their difficulty to extinguish, pose a significant risk to public safety. Congressman Ritchie Torres has sponsored a bill that aims to establish a consumer product safety standard for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The issue extends beyond New York City and requires national attention to protect all Americans and first responders.
