Are lithium ion batteries hazardous?
Are lithium ion batteries hazardous? Lithium batteries are regulated as a hazardous material under the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 C.F.R., Parts 171-180). The HMR apply to any material DOT determines can pose an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce.
How do you travel with lithium batteries?
Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only. With airline approval, passengers may also carry up to two spare larger lithium ion batteries (101–160 Wh) or lithium metal batteries (2-8 grams).
What happens if you have a lithium battery in checked luggage?
Lithium batteries can catch fire
While not all batteries are prohibited in checked luggage, lithium batteries are considered hazardous and should not be packed in checked bags. If a lithium battery overheats and catches fire inside the cargo hold, the fire can quickly spread and become difficult to control.