The Growing Fire Risk in Our Homes and Buildings: Lithium-Ion Batteries

Smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, plug-in solar, power tools, tablets, scooters and countless other devices have transformed how we live and work.

What they increasingly have in common is a lithium-ion battery.

While these batteries are generally safe when manufactured, maintained and used correctly, damaged batteries or inappropriate charging and storage practices can lead to overheating, thermal runaway and fires that can develop rapidly and be difficult to control.

Fire and rescue services across the UK continue to report incidents involving:

• E-bikes and e-scooters
• Mobile phones and tablets
• Portable power banks
• Power tool batteries
• Incompatible, counterfeit or damaged chargers

Charging can be a particular risk, especially where batteries or chargers are damaged, incompatible or being used incorrectly. The risk becomes particularly significant within residential buildings where charging takes place in escape routes, communal areas, hallways or close to combustible materials. 

Simple precautions can significantly reduce risk:

• Use the manufacturer’s recommended charger and follow the charging instructions
• Avoid charging devices on beds, sofas or other soft furnishings
• Stop using batteries that show signs of damage, swelling, overheating or unusual odour
• Keep charging devices uncovered and away from combustible materials
• Never obstruct escape routes with charging equipment or stored batteries
• Where practical, avoid leaving batteries charging unattended for prolonged periods

For property managers and responsible persons, awareness of battery-related fire risks should form part of wider fire safety management, resident engagement and building safety communications. As our reliance on rechargeable technology continues to grow, fire safety awareness needs to keep pace. Technology offers incredible benefits. But with convenience comes responsibility. Sometimes, a simple change in how we charge, store or use a battery can make the difference between a device and a fire.