Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh to announce the results of a recent inspection into an illegal lithium-ion battery charging operation

June 29, 2023

Officials to Provide an Update on Inspection Efforts Following the Launch of New Enforcement and Outreach Initiative Last Week

Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh will announce the results of a recent inspection that took place in Manhattan this week that uncovered an illegal lithium-ion battery charging operation. During the press conference, officials will also provide an update on the FDNY’s recently enhanced inspection and enforcement efforts of bike shops and bike repair shops citywide, as well as efforts to educate users of these batteries with best practices. The update can be viewed live on the Department’s website, www.nyc.gov/FDNY.

The FDNY has been conducting inspections of bike shops and responding to 311 calls from concerned New Yorkers to increase the enforcement against those who unsafely and improperly use lithium-ion batteries.

This year, lithium-ion batteries have caused 113 fires, injured 71 New Yorkers, and killed 13 more.

WHO: Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn, FDNY Officials

WHERE: FDNY Headquarters, 9 Metrotech Ctr, Brooklyn, NY 11201

WHEN: June 28 – 1:30 PM

***PHOTOS AND VIDEO OF THE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY OPERATION WILL BE PROVIDED***