Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Lithium ion batteries supply power to many kinds of devices, including smart phones, laptops, e-bikes, scooters, e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, toys, and even cars. Like any product, a small number of these batteries can be defective – they can overheat, catch fire or explode.

Here’s some advice to keep you and your family safe.

Fire Safety Tips

• Do your research. Only purchase and use devices and equipment from reputable manufacturers and suppliers.
• Only use chargers that are supplied with the device, or certified third-party charging equipment that is compatible with the battery specifications. Using chargers with incorrect power delivery (voltage and current) can cause damage to the battery, including overheating, that can lead to fires.
• Avoid leaving batteries or devices charging for prolonged periods of time. Once the indicator shows that a device or battery has been fully charged, disconnect it from the charger. This includes leaving batteries or devices charging unattended overnight.
• Don’t charge or store batteries or devices on combustible or insulating surfaces such as beds, sofas, or carpet, and keep them away from highly flammable materials such as blankets, clothing, and paper.
• If your device or battery is swelling, very hot, or smoking while charging, turn off the power – if it can be done safely.
• Only have device repairs and battery replacements or upgrades performed by a qualified professional.
• Never store or leave batteries or devices in areas where they can be exposed to heat or moisture. Do not leave devices in direct sunlight or in parked vehicles where they can quickly heat up.
• With regard to Light Electric Vehicles such as e-scooters and e-bikes, where possible these should be stored and charged outside in a garage, shed or carport, away from living spaces. Keep them away from any exit doors, escape routes and combustible materials. 
• For smaller devices, such as tablets, laptops and phones, do not charge these under a pillow, on the bed or on a couch – they can overheat and cause a fire.

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If you have concerns

• If your device or battery is very hot, smoking or catches fire while charging, turn off the power if this can be done safely
• Move the device away from anything that can catch fire
• If you are in any immediate danger, get out and call 111 – see What to do in a house fire

Battery Disposal

• Do not put lithium ion batteries in the rubbish
• Recycling is always the best option – contact your local council for a recycling location
• Do not leave discarded batteries in piles.