Get guidance on lithium-ion batteries and returning home after a wildfire:
Do not disturb products with lithium-ion batteries that may have been damaged or exposed to high heat from a wildfire. Doing so can cause electric shock, a fire, toxic gases or an explosion.
Do not enter enclosed spaces with lithium-ion battery products. Open doors and windows, as explosive gases can build up inside a garage, basement, shed or closet.
Thoroughly review your county's guidance on how to safely return to your home after a wildfire.
Do not attempt to extinguish or smother the battery, as this can worsen the situation.
Leave the area immediately.
Move upwind at least 330 feet (length of a football field) and call 911.
Electric or hybrid vehicles (EV, PHEV, HEV)
Residential energy storage systems
Home backup power supplies
Do not start, move, tow, or charge an electric or hybrid vehicle if it was near a fire.
Do not start or use a residential energy storage system or home backup power supply if it was near a fire.
A professional should inspect these during the clean-up operations.
A professional may decide to remove the lithium-ion batteries from your vehicle or energy/power system during the clean-up operations.
If you encounter a lithium-ion battery while re-entering your property and/or are unsure if a lithium-ion battery was damaged, please contact 1-833-R9-USEPA (1-833-798-7372).
A professional will assess your home and may remove these products during the clean-up operations.
Guidance on lithium-ion batteries specific to the 2025 LA County fires and the 2024 Park Fire (Butte and Tehama Counties).
Information about clean-up operations for the 2025 Los Angeles County Wildfires: 2025 Southern California Wildfire Response | US EPA
Recovery Guide to Wildfire Debris Removal | CalRecycle
Frequent Questions on Lithium-Ion Batteries | US EPA
Content developed by: California Post-Fire Lithium-Ion Battery Workgroup (a multi-agency workgroup)