Be aware of potential warning signs that your power bank might be failing.

A man in his 50s suffered injuries when a power bank in his pocket exploded yesterday at Melbourne International Airport in Australia. The incident occurred while he was in a Qantas Airlines business lounge. Emergency services responded to the scene, and the man was treated for minor burns to his legs and fingers. According to witnesses, the explosion sparked alarm at the busy airport. One Reddit user reported hearing "screaming" and described "battery acid flying everywhere."

The witness stated that the man's jacket caught fire. Passengers were evacuated due to the smoke and odor. The power bank owner is now in stable condition at a local hospital.

The FAA notes that lithium-ion batteries can overheat and experience thermal runaway. This process can happen without warning due to damage, overheating, water exposure, overcharging, manufacturing flaws, or improper packing.

For air travel, all lithium battery power banks must be stored in carry-on luggage or on your person. Spare lithium batteries, including power banks and phone chargers, are prohibited in checked bags. Southwest Airlines does not allow passengers to charge devices with power banks inside carry-on bags or out of view. The power bank must be visible to the flight crew.

It is advisable to check your airline's policy regarding power banks and inflight charging prior to traveling.

Typical warning signs to watch for with power banks include:

Swelling indicates a high fire risk, so discontinue use immediately.

Excessive heat during charging or use may indicate an internal fault. Stop using the power bank and dispose of it safely.

Unusual odors can signal an internal failure or leak. Discontinue use.

Visible damage to the casing, like cracks or warping, may lead to a short circuit. Do not use the device.

Leaking liquid is hazardous, so stop using the power bank immediately.

Power banks are sold in many locations, but it is safer to purchase from major manufacturers such as Belkin and Mophie. Anker is another option despite a previous recall.

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