Fire Risks from Lithium-Ion Batteries
Risk Management Guidance
Lithium-ion batteries are found in all types of domestic electrical equipment, including e-cigarettes, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, power banks, e-scooters, mobility scooters and electric bikes.
They contain a flammable electrolyte and other components and have a history of frequent accidental ignition, leading to substantial amounts of smoke, intense fire, ejection of flames and even explosion if overcharged, overheating or short-circuiting. The risk is greatest when the battery or charging equipment has been damaged. The fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries are regularly circulated on social media. Such violent fires risk severe injury or death and complete burn-out of homes – people are particularly vulnerable if these batteries are charged overnight whilst they are asleep. We can reduce the risk of this happening to you by following some simple tips.
Safety Tips
Only use electrical products that have the UKCA or CE mark.
Ensure the use of the correct charger designed for the device/battery.
Cheap alternatives (devices, equipment, batteries, and chargers) should be avoided as they are not subject to the same rigorous testing and certification procedure.
Regularly check chargers (plugs and cables) for signs of damage and overheating, and any change in colour or appearance. Dispose of it immediately if found to be damaged in any way.
Do not expose batteries to high temperatures or heat sources directly or for extended periods of time e.g. direct sunlight. Battery cells should not be subject to temperatures in excess of 600C in operation or 700C during storage.
Charging should take place in a well-ventilated area free of readily ignitable materials e.g. a kitchen work surface with no cupboards above. Never charge on soft furnishings e.g. beds and sofas.
Only charge during the day when there is the opportunity to detect faults early. The area selected for charging should have automatic smoke detection at the ceiling level.
Avoid the use of temporary extension leads and adaptors for battery chargers.
If a battery is found to be starting to overheat, move it to a safe location outdoors. Contact the local authority for guidance on how to dispose of it, but don’t place it in the usual waste bins.
To extinguish a lithium battery if it starts smoking, rapidly cool it using water. For example, for a small battery, simply drop it in a cup of water.