ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Governor Kathy Hochul announced a new campaign that raises awareness for the dangers of lithium-ion batteries.
Many consumer products use lithium-ion batteries including e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards, smartphones, laptops, toys, and power tools. In New York City alone, there were over 250 fires, 130 injuries, and 18 fatalities in 2023. More fires have occurred throughout the state and this has prompted the Governor to call for action to be taken.
This ‘Buy Safe Charge Safe’ campaign began on February 1, 2024. It is a multi-agency effort to educate consumers on how to properly purchase, use, charge, and maintain devices with lithium-ion batteries. It also seeks to warn consumers about the dangers of these batteries when used improperly.
The campaign is said to include display, search, and social media ads targeted to individuals purchasing or using products that use lithium-ion batteries. Ads will focus on what to look for when buying these batteries, and how to safely use and dispose of them.
Hochul previously proposed a ban on the sale of devices with uncertified lithium-ion batteries which are often used in e-bikes and e-scooters in her State of the State initiative.
