The Hoboken Fire Department is preparing to implement a new lithium-ion battery safety law on March 11th after receiving approval from the city council last week.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“The City of Hoboken supports the safe use of micro-mobility vehicles, and that includes the safe use of the batteries that power them,” Mayor Ravi Bhalla said in a statement.
“We have seen what type of destruction second-hand and improperly used lithium-ion batteries have caused in neighboring communities, and we will do whatever we can to keep our residents safe from these devastating fires.”
The ordinance, created under the guidance of Chief Anton Peskens and Hoboken Fire Marshal Stephen DiVincent, prohibits the sale, repair, and/or use of second-hand lithium-ion batteries.
The law also prohibits the charging and/or storage of a lithium-ion powered battery
or a lithium-ion battery powered mobility devices in common areas, including basements, lobbies, and hallways, of residential properties with three or more units.
“We are not banning e-bikes or e-scooters in Hoboken. These regulations are crucial for public safety reasons and will keep our residents and visitors safe from the fast-moving and all too often deadly fires, that are associated with the batteries those devices use,” added Public Safety Director Kenneth Ferrante.
“Lithium-ion batteries can pose serious fire risks if not handled, or disposed of properly, as we have all sadly witnessed in other communities. Stricter guidelines and regulations allow us to reduce these risks, as well as better protect both first responders and the public,” noted Peskens.
Officials added that a public awareness and education will take place prior to the local legislation being implemented.
“We thank the City Council and Mayor Bhalla for adopting new legislation that strengthens battery safety and takes a strong step toward protecting residents,” began Bike Hoboken Executive Director Andrew Wilson.
“By addressing high-risk batteries and unsafe storage practices, these regulations effectively enhance public safety while ensuring residents maintain access to the essential transportation devices they rely on.”
Councilman-at-Large Joe Quintero also expressed enthusiasm about getting the new local law on the books.
“I’d like to thank the Administration, Fire Department, and Council Colleague for working together on this first step toward managing the risk associated with batteries used in many micromobility devices,” he began.
“While this is a first step, I know that by working with these parties, including bike safety advocates like Bike Hoboken, we can implement additional measures that balance safety with the mobility needs of our residents.”
Editor’s note: This story was updated with a comment from Councilman-at-Large Joe Quintero.
Our law in Jersey City prohibits charging indoors in residential settings at night. I remember it was discussed because we have had so many fires inside apartments. Once it is burning, it cannot be extinguished.