FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker warns of continued dangers of lithium-ion batteries following recent fires

August 29, 2024

FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker spoke about the continued dangers of lithium-ion batteries during a Public Information Briefing on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at FDNY headquarters in Brooklyn.

The briefing comes following two large fires within a 48-hour window that required significant response from the FDNY: a 4-alarm fire in Brooklyn and a barge fire in Long Island City, Queens. Both fires were started by lithium-ion batteries.

"As your Fire Commissioner, my top priority is to keep the people of New York City safe and our members safe," Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker said. "We need the public's help. One life lost is too many."

Data collected in 2023 showed that nearly 60% of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries were caused by batteries that were not charging.

"This data is important in recognizing that it is not only batteries being charged that pose a threat, but those that are not being charged," Commissioner Tucker said.

Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn added: "These two operations were extremely taxing on our units and the residents, not to mention the surrounding communities. The number of lithium-ion battery fires this year are equal to the number of fires we had last year at this time. Injuries are down and the deaths are down, but we're extremely concerned about the damage these fires cause. ... These batteries can be dangerous and unpredictable."

So far in 2024, there have been 171 fires, 59 injuries and three fatalities caused by lithium-ion batteries. Those numbers are down from 2023, but FDNY officials said there is still work to do. For safety information on lithium-ion batteries, go to nyc.gov/fdny/batteries.