Stop and think for a minute – how many devices do you use on a daily basis that have batteries? Your cellphone, laptop, tablet, television remote, electric toothbrush, home robot devices and garage door opener to name a few. Then there are other devices that you might not consider – children's toys, baby monitors, smoke and carbon dioxide detectors, electric cars, wine openers and even something as mundane as a pepper grinder.

Less than 50 years ago, the average home had two items that ran on batteries – probably a flashlight and a transistor radio. Today, homes are more likely to have at least 30 devices that require battery power.

Batteries are also being used to run large enterprises, providing businesses with a wide range of energy alternatives. However, this increased use also brings new liability exposures.

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Patricia L. Harman

Patricia L. Harman is the editor-in-chief of Claims magazine, a contributing editor to PropertyCasualty360.com, and chairs the annual America's Claims Event (ACE), which focuses on providing claims professionals with cutting-edge education and networking opportunities. She covers auto, property & casualty, workers' compensation, fraud, risk and cybersecurity, and is a frequent speaker at insurance industry events. Contact her at [email protected]