The FDNY gave a public service announcement on Tuesday, reminding New Yorkers of the dangers of lithium-ion batteries.  

This comes after a deadly fire in Washington Heights that took place over the weekend was linked to these batteries.  

In 2023, the lithium-ion batteries have been linked to 76 fires, causing 60 injuries and taking the lives of seven New York City residents – more deaths in the past five months than in all of 2022.  

Fire officials are urging e-bike and e-scooter users to check their batteries to make sure they’re certified.  

“It is quickly becoming one of the leading causes of fire deaths this year,” said FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanaugh. “These fires are extremely dangerous, they create a large volume of fire very quickly and present significant threats to New Yorkers who are trying to get out of their homes and our members as they respond to these calls.” 

Kavanaugh says more regulations on these batteries are to come, and that the FDNY is working with local, state, and even federal officials to get these regulations put in place.