The focus of this quarter’s safety tip is on laptop fire safety and prevention. For individuals who use laptops in and around their homes or know someone who does, several safety measures can be taken to ensure a safer experience.

Outlined below are five tips for avoiding an overheating laptop:

Always use your laptop on a hard, flat surface to allow for proper ventilation and to prevent blockage of air vents. Avoid using laptops on soft surfaces such as beds, pillows, blankets, or sofas.

Regularly check the laptop’s air vents for dust or debris that may be blocking the ventilation. Additionally, avoid placing laptops on surfaces where dirt, dust, or lint is present. Compressed air can be used to remove any debris that has been sucked up through the fan.

Configure your laptop’s power settings to enter sleep mode or power down after a few minutes of inactivity, reducing the risk of accidents when left unattended for extended periods. If necessary, use the laptop’s battery instead of AC power to ensure it eventually turns off if left on accidentally.

Check the manufacturer’s website for battery recalls, as faulty batteries have the potential to start fires. While email newsletters may be available for this information, it is advisable to check for related news or updates independently.

Ensure that the computer’s power cord is not damaged, as it may emit electrical sparks that can start a fire. If the power cord is damaged, it should be unplugged immediately and replaced as soon as possible.

In the event of a battery or electrical fire, it is critical not to use water. Instead, a class ABC multipurpose (dry chemical) extinguisher or a Class BC carbon dioxide extinguisher should be used.

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