When dealing with lithium-ion battery fires, what action should be avoided?

In dealing with lithium-ion battery fires, certain actions are critical to avoid to ensure safety and effective management of the situation. Covering the device with a cloth can trap heat and exacerbate the fire, as it limits airflow and can lead to a more intense blaze. Similarly, smothering the device with a bag of ice might seem like a cooling method, but it can also introduce moisture to the fire, potentially leading to a violent reaction due to the chemical nature of the materials in lithium-ion batteries.

The safe response to a lithium-ion battery fire typically involves using specific extinguishing agents that can handle electrical fires and chemical reactions associated with these batteries, which is not water, as it can react adversely. Therefore, avoiding these actions is crucial for mitigating risk during such incidents.