Lithium-ion Batteries: Key safety messages

In recent years, the number of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries has increased. 
 

Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries that are found in many modern-day devices like mobile phones, tablets, laptops, e-cigarettes, hearing aids, portable chargers, power tools, and electric bikes and scooters.

•    Lithium-ion battery fires are ferocious and spread quickly
•    Do not leave batteries unattended when charging
•    Do not charge batteries on escape routes or in hallways
•    Always unplug chargers when batteries are at full capacity
 

When using devices with lithium-ion Batteries:

Do not: 

• Overcharge batteries. 
• Leave batteries continuously on charge. Once the charging cycle is complete, remove the battery from the charger.
• Leave charging items unattended, e.g. when asleep or away from home. 
• Use batteries with damaged casings, or casings that may be damaged.
• Buy fake or cheap chargers. 
• Use batteries that appear swollen or appear to have deformed in any way.
• Cover the charger/batteries/power leads up when charging, e.g. with pillows, bedding etc. 
• Overload sockets or use extension leads. 
• Dispose of batteries in general household waste. 

Avoid: 

• Storing or charging e-bikes, e-scooters, or mobility scooters on escape routes or in communal areas of flats. 
• Placing any combustible materials near to items containing batteries. 
• Damaging the batteries by crushing, puncturing, or submerging in water. 
• Batteries touching other metal items, e.g. keys or coins in bags/pockets. 
• Storing, using, or charging batteries at very hot or very cold temperatures. 

Always: 

• Use the charger recommended by the manufacturer and always buy items from a reputable source. It is worth paying more for these items to ensure having quality batteries, chargers, and built-in safety features. 
• Buy the correct and branded replacement battery for the device.
• Charge batteries away from combustible items and preferably where they can be monitored.
• Ensure you have working smoke alarms, or heat detectors, in areas where you are charging items. 
• Always check batteries for damage before charging. 
• Store unused/spare batteries safely in plastic containers. 
• Replace damaged batteries in e-cigarettes. 
• Dispose of batteries and disposable e-cigarettes safely, i.e. at a collection point in a supermarket or at a local authority recycling centre.

Smoke from battery fires is highly toxic and the fires are particularly hard to extinguish. If there is a fire GET OUT, STAY OUT, CALL 999.

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