A number of recent building fires in New York City have been traced to lithium ion batteries, the kind used in e-bikes and other micro-mobility devices. The New York City Fire Department says it has documented 188 battery fires this year—more than 4 times the number for all of 2020. The fires have killed six people this year, and hurt more than a hundred. On Monday, the City Council held a hearing to consider a slate of safety plans to address the issue.

Councilmember Joann Ariola heads the Committee on Fire and Emergency Management. She joined WNYC Morning Edition host Michael Hill to talk about what steps buildings—and the city—should take to help protect people.