FASS Explains The Unseen Danger Of Battery Fires

As the World continues to move towards more and more battered powered consumer goods, from electric vehicles to scooters and hoverboards for fun, it is important to be aware of the dangers posed by batteries in the event of a fire.

batteries catching fire

Most people are aware that batteries catching fire can cause an explosion risk

Most people are aware that batteries catching fire can cause an explosion risk, but not everyone is aware of the ferocity and rapid spread caused by a battery fire and the significant danger to life this can pose for anyone nearby.

For example, an electric scooter, which is likely to be powered by a small ion lithium battery, user can see in the video on this page how intense the fire becomes and how dangerous that would be if it were within a building or someone was stood close by.

Battery technology

Battery technology is safe but there are some steps to take to minimize the risk of fire.

These steps include:

• Always buy battery-powered products from a reputable outlet. Cheaper items often have batteries made to a lower, non-CE standard, which either have thin outer casings that can be punctured easily, or they contain shards of small metal particles that heat up causing the electrolyte to boil and a fire to start.
• Never leave an item charging unattended or overnight which might allow heat to build up.
• It’s not just domestic users, businesses need to be aware too that with employees potentially using electric scooters and bikes, not to leave items charging near combustible materials or people.

One final thing, should a fire start, it is important to use the correct type of extinguisher, which in this instance would be a Class ABC Dry Powder Extinguisher. Fire and Safety Solutions can supply a range of dry powder extinguishers in different sizes and finishes.