Safety Tips for Computer Laptop Owners
Notebook computers are now a part of modern life. Their small, convenient design makes them a top choice for many consumers. Unfortunately, there have been reports of fires and injuries associated with the misuse of laptop batteries and chargers. It is important to understand the risks to help prevent these injuries; especially as we depend on our laptops more each day.
Laptops go everywhere with us; the office, school, home and even to the coffee shop. That’s why it is so important to be careful when using your laptop. Following a few simple safety precautions can help prevent fires and accidental injuries.
Safe Computer Notebook Practices
- Soft surfaces can restrict airflow to the battery and cause overheating. So never use your laptop on a sofa, bed or carpet.
- 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.
- Do not use incompatible computer batteries and chargers. If unsure about whether a replacement battery or charger is compatible, contact the product manufacturer.
- Computer batteries can get hot during normal use. Do not use your computer on your lap.
- Do not permit a loose battery to come in contact with metal objects, such as coins, keys or jewelry.
- Follow battery usage, storage and charging guidelines found in the user's guide.
- Avoid dropping or bumping the computer. Dropping it, especially on a hard surface, can potentially cause damage to the computer and battery. If you suspect damage contact the manufacturer.
- 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.
Source: Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Additional Safety Tips:
Protect Yourself and Your Information
Notebook computers have become the primary computer for so many because of their size, features and mobility. However, there are increased risks that come with the convenient benefits. Below are some additional ways to protect yourself and your personal information when using your laptop:
Avoid making online transactions when using a
public Wi‐Fi network to protect your information from being tampered with or stolen.- Don’t let your computer web browser remember personal information such as banking log‐in passwords or credit card numbers.
- Protect your notebook memory by using external storage drives to store important documents, pictures and videos.
Important Info about Laptop Fires
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there have been at least 47 incidents involving smoke or fire associated with notebook computers since 2001. If you feel that your laptop gets extremely hot or overheats frequently; check the recalls.gov website to see if your laptop battery has been recalled or to report the concern.
These are just a few things you can do to safeguard your home and family from electrical fires. Please visit Montlick.com or HelpKeep- KidsSafe.org and click on “Family Safety and Legal Tips,” to see our latest safety videos and downloadable materials, and to register for Free Safety Alerts.
This "Laptop Safety Guide" is presented by Atlanta, Georgia Injury Lawyers, Montlick & Associates
Georgia Injury Lawyers Montlick & Associates has been committed to family safety and preventing injuries for over 25 years. That's why we created the Laptop Safety Guide above. Please take a few minutes to review the safety tips with your family to help prevent fires and accidental injuries when using laptop computers. And please remember check the recalls.gov website to see if your laptop or battery has been recalled if it gets extremely hot or overheats frequently.