The Transportation Security Administration this week reminded travelers that electric toothbrushes containing lithium batteries are not permitted in checked baggage and should be packed in carry-on luggage.
In a post on the agency's Facebook page, the TSA wrote, "Traveling with your electric toothbrush, or other items that buzz? If they have an installed lithium battery you should pack them in your carry-on bag." The agency added that "any spare or uninstalled lithium batteries must be placed in a carry-on bag."
The guidance applies to other common consumer electronics that include lithium batteries, including certain cell phones, battery-charging cases, laptops and cameras. The agency said the measures are intended to reduce the risk of battery-related fires in the cargo hold, where such blazes can be harder for crews to detect and suppress.
The announcement follows reports of an increase in incidents involving lithium batteries on aircraft in recent months. Regulators and airlines have been emphasizing that lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries can overheat, ignite and cause thermal runaway if damaged, improperly stored or short-circuited.
Under existing U.S. aviation safety guidance, the carriage of lithium batteries is subject to restrictions designed to limit fire risk. The TSA's latest post reiterated that installed batteries in portable devices and any spare batteries should be kept in the cabin so crew and passengers can take quicker action if a battery shows signs of overheating.
Travelers should check airline and international rules before flying, as carriers may impose additional requirements or limits on capacity and quantity of spare batteries. The TSA's reminder did not announce a new regulation but reinforced longstanding advice to place lithium-battery-powered devices and spare batteries in carry-on bags rather than checked luggage.
Airlines and federal agencies have previously updated safety guidance and packaging requirements for lithium batteries following incidents involving portable electronics. The FAA and other international regulators continue to monitor and adjust policies aimed at reducing the risk of in-flight battery fires.
Passengers seeking clarification can consult the TSA website or contact their airline for specific carry-on rules and recommendations for transporting devices with lithium batteries.