JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — If you’re among those heading to the airport on Christmas Eve, it’s crucial to consider how you pack certain gifts, especially those powered by lithium batteries.

At Jacksonville International Airport, travelers are bustling with multiple bags and carefully wrapped presents, all set for holiday journeys. The FAA emphasizes the importance of keeping items with lithium batteries in your carry-on or personal items rather than checked luggage.

The rationale behind this advisory is safety. Lithium batteries pose a fire risk if damaged or overheated, a scenario made plausible by the rough handling checked bags endure from check-in to boarding.

“We aim to avoid any situation where the flight crew might need to handle a battery that has gone into thermal runaway,” stated Ben Supko, the FAA’s Associate Administrator for Security and Hazardous Materials Safety. “It’s safer for these batteries to be in the cabin rather than the cargo hold.”

To mitigate fire hazards, the FAA restricts the transport of lithium batteries exceeding 160 watt-hours. These are typically found in items like generators, power stations, and large power banks. Florida airports, particularly those in Miami and Tampa, have reported an uptick in the confiscation of such items from passengers.

Although there is still some risk when carrying any device with a lithium battery in your carry-on, if you notice a battery malfunction on board, it is crucial to act immediately.

“Immediately get the attention of the cabin crew. They have training, they’ve practiced this, and they know what to do in the event of a lithium battery fire or heat event. They are there to assist you, and if you have trouble getting their attention, standing up and acting quickly is very important,” Supko added.

While this policy is enforced year-round, it is especially important to keep it in mind this time of year, as many gifts may contain lithium batteries. Items such as vapes or power tools still use lithium batteries, just like phones and laptops.