The FDNY has recently ramped up efforts to crack down on illegal lithium-ion battery storage and charging after discovering multiple illegal charging stations and storage areas connected to some of the city’s most dangerous fires.  

Fire officials say the agency has bolstered its inspection and enforcement efforts in recent months, with 38 inspections resulting in a slew of summons and violations orders for the illegal storage, charging and tampering of lithium-ion batteries.  

The FDNY says lithium-ion batteries have been the cause of 113 fires in 2023, injuring 71 New Yorkers and taking the lives of 13 people. The FDNY commissioner has a simple message for those with lithium-ion batteries.  

“If you own a business that is improperly charging, storing, or tampering with lithium-ion batteries, we will find you, we will fine you, and we will shut you down,” said FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh.  “This is a life-and-death situation.”