Birmingham Fire Department says lithium ion batteries behind two recent house fires [Video]

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – The Birmingham Fire Department is working to warn the community about lithium ion batteries. According to firefighters, lithium ion batteries have been responsible for two different house fires over the last two weeks.

Lithium ion batteries are in everything from laptops to vacuum cleaners but if they overheat, or are improperly charged the consequences can be deadly.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Clay Hendon says the technology is safe but it’s critical that you use the proper cords and replacement batteries, not the cheaper knockoffs.

“Everyone wants to save money, I get it. I am guilty of that myself, but when you see stories like behind us, that ten to fifteen dollars that you may have saved on a charger could possibly cost you your life or your home,” says Battalion Chief Hendon.

If you don’t use a UL tested cord or device your home could end …