Power Bank: Avoid the dangers of power bank, use it properly, know the reasons why it is dangerous..

In today's digital era, power banks have become an important part of our lives. This gadget helps to charge smartphones, tablets, earbuds, and other devices on the go, and its usefulness is increasing day by day. However, many people who use the facility of power banks do not know that this small device can sometimes prove to be dangerous and even fatal. If it is used incorrectly or a poor-quality power bank is purchased, it can cause serious incidents like an explosion or fire. There have been many instances when major accidents have happened due to power banks.

Recently, a plane was saved from a major accident.

According to the information, recently a fire incident has come to light on a Virgin Australia flight going from Sydney to Hobart, the cause of which is believed to be a power bank kept in a passenger's carry-on bag. After this incident, the airline is considering changing its battery-related policies.

Smoke was seen coming out of a locker above the plane as Virgin flight VA1528 was in the process of landing at Hobart Airport on Monday. An airline spokesperson confirmed that the fire was in this overhead locker. A video shared by online news portal Pulse Tasmania showed a flight attendant using a fire extinguisher on a bag filled with smoke, while some passengers tried to help with water bottles.

When does a power bank become dangerous?

Power banks usually contain lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, which can explode or catch fire if they overheat. Faulty wiring in these batteries can also cause a fire. Often, unbranded or local power banks are available at very cheap prices, lacking safety features, such as protection against overcharging or short circuits. There is no monitoring of their quality, which increases the risk of accidents.

Additionally, keeping the power bank in the sun for a long time or in humid places can also cause danger. This can cause a chemical reaction inside the battery, which increases the risk of explosion. Many times, people try to charge the power bank and the phone simultaneously with the same charging cable, which not only damages the phone but also affects the functionality of the power bank.

How to use a power bank safely

Whenever you buy a power bank, always choose a branded and BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certified power bank. These power banks have safety features to prevent overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. Avoid overcharging the power bank and remove it from power immediately after charging.

Do not keep the power bank in a very hot or very cold place. Leaving the power bank in direct sunlight or a closed car while traveling can be dangerous. Avoid keeping the power bank under a pillow or mattress while charging, as this does not allow the heat to escape, increasing the chances of fire.

Also, always use good-quality charging cables and adapters, as poor-quality cables can cause short circuits or excessive current flow in the power bank. If the power bank smells burning, starts swelling or starts emitting smoke, stop using it immediately and send it to an e-waste recycling center.