Handheld fans can cause fires: Be careful this summer! 4 signs to prevent explosions

In Tokyo’s Shinagawa area, a fire broke out in an apartment building. It might have been caused by a “handheld fan.” There are reportedly four warning signs that can help prevent an explosion.

Warning for the summer! Here’s what to watch for to prevent four potential danger signs of explosion:

1. A fire happened in Shinagawa, Tokyo. Flames were coming out of an apartment window on the 9th floor. The fire was mostly put out in about two hours. A man in his 30s was seriously injured, and five others had minor injuries.
2. The handheld fan might have caught fire. If dropped, the impact can damage the lithium-ion battery inside the fan, which might cause it to explode.
3. In an experiment, the fan exploded near the chest when worn around the neck. The explosion made the handle cover come off, spreading parts and smoke all around.
4. According to safety expert Nanae Miyakawa, a damaged lithium-ion battery can lead to a fire. There are four warning signs to be careful of:
   • The device doesn’t charge.
   • It gets hotter than usual when charging.
   • The battery case swells.
   • It unexpectedly turns off.
5. Many rechargeable devices use lithium-ion batteries. It’s important to handle them carefully, avoiding impacts and heat.