Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has issued a cautionary statement for consumers regarding the hazards of Lithium-ion battery-powered gifts this holiday season.
A notable increase in fires linked to these batteries, predominantly in compact, portable devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters, has been observed this year by FRNSW.
Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Incidents Surge
Since the beginning of the year, FRNSW has attended to 180 fires caused by Lithium-ion batteries, a substantial increase from just over 16 incidents recorded in 2021.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience, Steph Cooke, has emphasized that the growing number of these fires should serve as a critical warning to shoppers during the Christmas season.
Risks with Battery Charging
"Most of these fires occur when lithium-ion batteries are in the process of charging and overheat, causing an explosion of flames in living rooms or garages," stated Ms. Cooke.
She highlighted a recent incident where an e-bike battery ignited, nearly destroying a family home in Manly, with only a brick wall preventing a more extensive spread of the fire. She advised consumers to handle Lithium-ion battery products with care, avoid extended charging periods, and promptly call emergency services at Triple Zero (000) in case of an emergency.
Handling Rechargeable and Disposable Batteries
Trent Curtin stressed the importance of exercising caution with rechargeable and disposable batteries
FRNSW Acting Deputy Commissioner for Strategic Capability, Trent Curtin, stressed the importance of exercising caution with both rechargeable and disposable batteries, noting their potential to release molten flammable metals and toxic gases when they catch fire.
"When Lithium-ion batteries fail, they are prone to 'thermal runaway,' building up intense heat until they violently burst, causing toxic, flammable and explosive gases and flames that are extremely difficult to extinguish," explained Curtin.
He mentioned that firefighters often need to use large volumes of water to extinguish these fires and prevent re-ignition.
Ensuring Battery Quality and Safety
Curtin also pointed out that, while the quality of Lithium-ion batteries can be a factor, the primary risks often stem from over-charging or charging a damaged battery, which can result in overheating and ignition.
He recommended buying toys, e-bikes, e-scooters, laptops, or power tools powered by Lithium-ion batteries from reputable brands and retailers.
FRNSW Battery Safety Recommendations
- Avoid over-charging Lithium-ion batteries or leaving them unattended to charge overnight.
- Do not charge batteries on beds, sofas, or near highly flammable and insulating materials.
- Always use compliant and approved charging equipment for Lithium-ion batteries.
- Prevent dropping, crushing, or piercing the Lithium-ion battery cells.
- Store Lithium-ion batteries in a cool, dry area away from combustible materials, and maintain larger devices like e-bikes and gardening tools outside bedrooms and living spaces.
- Refrain from charging or using visibly damaged Lithium-ion batteries.
- Dispose of used Lithium-ion batteries appropriately.
FRNSW is actively conducting research to enhance firefighters' response to Lithium-ion battery incidents and to develop policies and standards aimed at minimizing injuries and property damage.
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is warning shoppers about the dangers relating to Lithium-ion battery-powered gifts this Christmas.
FRNSW has observed a significant rise in fires related to Lithium-ion batteries this year, most often in small, portable devices like e-bikes and e-scooters.
Lithium-ion battery fires
FRNSW crews have responded to 180 Lithium-ion battery fires, compared with just over 16 in 2021
Since January 1, FRNSW crews have responded to 180 Lithium-ion battery fires, compared with just over 16 in 2021.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke said the number of recent Lithium-ion battery-related fires should serve as an alarm for Christmas shoppers.
Lithium-ion battery-powered products
"Most of these fires occur when lithium-ion batteries are in the process of charging and overheat, causing an explosion of flames in living rooms or garages," said Ms Cooke, adding "Just a few weeks ago an e-bike battery caught fire and almost burnt down a family home in Manly. A brick wall was the only barrier that prevented flames spreading from the garage to the remainder of the house."
She continues, "Please treat Lithium-ion battery-powered products with care, don’t leave them on charge for extended periods of time, and remember to call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency situation."
Re-chargeable and disposable batteries
Trent Curtin said both re-chargeable and disposable batteries should be treated with caution
FRNSW Acting Deputy Commissioner – Strategic Capability, Trent Curtin said both re-chargeable and disposable batteries should be treated with caution, as they can expel molten flammable metal and emit toxic gases when on fire.
He states, "When Lithium-ion batteries fail, they are prone to ‘thermal runaway’, which sees them build up intense heat until they violently burst, causing toxic, flammable and explosive gases and flames that are extremely difficult to extinguish."
"Firefighters often have to use copious amounts of water to ensure that they are extinguished and adequately cooled to prevent re-ignition," adds Acting Deputy Commissioner Curtin.
Quality of the Lithium-ion battery
Curtin added: “While the quality of the Lithium-ion battery can pose a risk, the main risk is caused by over-charging or trying to charge a damaged battery, which could cause it to overheat and ignite."
“If you are shopping for toys, e-bikes, e-scooters, laptops or power tools that are powered by Lithium-ion batteries this Christmas, always ensure you’re purchasing a reputable brand from a reputable retailer.”
FRNSW is warning people
- Not over-charge Lithium-ion batteries or leave them charging overnight unattended;
- Not charge Lithium-ion batteries on beds, sofas or around highly flammable and insulating materials;
- Always use compliant and approved charging equipment for Lithium-ion batteries;
- Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing the Lithium-ion battery cells;
- Store Lithium-ion batteries in a cool, dry area away from combustible materials, and larger devices like e-bikes and gardening tools should be stored outside of bedrooms and living spaces;
- Not charge or use Lithium-ion batteries that show signs of damage; and
- Properly dispose of used Lithium-ion batteries.
FRNSW is currently conducting research to inform how firefighters respond to Lithium-ion battery incidents, and to influence policy and standards that help prevent injuries and damage caused.
