CPSC Released Safety Tips on Laptop Use

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) released the tips on laptop computer use, after recent fire incidents with notebooks involved and massive battery recalls.

To promote safe use of notebook computers, batteries and chargers, CPSC advised not to use incompatible computer batteries and chargers.

Also, do not use your computer on your lap, because laptop batteries can get hot during normal use.

According to CPSC, you should avoid dropping or bumping the notebook PC. Dropping it can potentially cause damage to the computer and battery.

Other tips are:

Do not use your computer on soft surfaces, such as a sofa, bed or carpet, because it can restrict airflow and cause overheating.

Do not permit a loose battery to come in contact with metal objects, such as coins, keys or jewelry.

Do not crush, puncture or put a high degree of pressure on the battery as this can cause an internal short-circuit, resulting in overheating.

Do not place the computer in areas that may get very hot.

Do not get your computer or battery wet. Even though they will dry and appear to operate normally, the circuitry could slowly corrode and pose a safety hazard.

At the end, CPSC advised consumers to follow battery usage, storage and charging guidelines found in the computer’s user’s guide.

CPSC Releases Tips on Notebook Computer Use