US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is well known for getting its point across on social media. A seven-minute mannequin montage Getting injured by Fourth of July fireworks may be an unconventional way to warn about the dangers of recreational explosives, but try to forget those images when you light your next bottle rocket. In similar pyrotechnic fashion, the CPSC warns everyone to take extra care during the holidays when it comes to all types of flammable, seasonal items.
On December 22, the commission demonstrated in a 30-minute film that some gifts are much more flammable than others. Li-ion battery for Yule Log electric scooter video. These rechargeable energy sources are becoming more common, but their internal chemical reactions also produce flammable gases that can easy to burn for hours. They also require much more water to extinguish. It may take more than one electric vehicle to catch fire. 30,000 gallons for hardeningbut even small vehicles like e-scooters and hoverboards can be dangerous.
escooter with lithium-ion battery for your home – fire with ion battery for your home
“If you're buying an e-bike, e-scooter or hoverboard this holiday season, make sure you buy it from a seller you know and trust. Also, make sure you charge the battery safely,” CPSC. explained in his post. “Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for charging your battery. Never charge batteries overnight. [and] Use only approved replacement batteries.”
Fire risks aren't just about gifts under the tree, though. In some cases, the tree itself poses a danger. The difference between how flames spread in a dry holiday center versus a well-watered one is evident in CPSC reports. side by side comparison video published December 20. The Christmas tree, when dried, turns into a real tinderbox and ignites in a matter of seconds. While watered wood is still dangerous, it takes much longer to smolder before it ignites.
That's all the potentially life-saving information to keep in mind—details that the CPSC manages to condense into a simple, easy-to-remember metaphor: You won't give your children enchanted scorpionso don't give them elaborate or potentially dangerous gifts.
Okay, maybe it's not exactly a “simple” metaphor. But, like the 4th of July PSA, it is sure to be one to remember.
PopSci Gift Guide for 2025
