The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services is doubling down on how often a lithium-ion battery fire occurs in their state. State Fire Marshal Jon Davine announced on October 17, 2023 they are introducing a tracking system to monitor these events. “Fires caused by or involving lithium-ion batteries are on the rise, and often with deadly consequences,” the State Marshal believes.
Why a Tracking Tool for Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Now?
“One of the greatest challenges in addressing the increase in these fires is quantifying them,” Davine continues. “We are launching a new effort to gather more and better data on lithium-ion battery fires in Massachusetts.” Previously the Massachusetts Fire Incident Reporting System (MFIRS) fell short in this regard. This is currently a mirror of the U.S. National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS).
The MFIRS and NFIRS both collect data on battery fires, although neither system distinguishes battery types. They also tend to code battery fires by type of device rather than by type of battery. Thus they fail to gather specific data about lithium-ion battery fire related incidents, which are particularly hot, dangerous, and difficult to extinguish.
Additional Data Jon Davine’s Department Will Collect
The Massachusetts State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit will collect data from fires that may involve lithium-ion batteries in future. This information will include the make and model of the device, where it was purchased, whether it was charging at the time of the fire, and information on the battery itself.
Local municipal investigators will also report this information, because they deal with the greater majority of Massachusetts fires. “We believe these batteries are under-reported as a factor in significant fires,” Davine explains. “More comprehensive data will help the fire service gauge the true scope of the issue, and help guide future regulations and legislation.”
More Information
Avoid a Lithium-Ion Battery Fire – Here’s How
