We are raising awareness of the danger of fire in the home and how you can help prevent fires.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The campaign stresses how important it is to buy, charge, and recycle safely when it comes to lithium-ion batteries.
E-bikes; scooters; and mobile scooters are popular and offer a means of transport that has helped many. At the same time, their batteries can be very dangerous if not properly maintained.
Battery fires can be very dangerous and can be caused by:
- Rapid overheating (a process called thermal runaway) leading to fire or explosion.
- Overcharging – if you charge too long or with too much voltage, it can cause overheating and fires.
- Damaged batteries – may release flammable electrolytes, increasing the risk of fire.
- Exposure to high temperatures – high temperatures speed up battery ageing and increase the chance of battery failure.
You can prevent fires by:
Buy only listed products.
- When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognised testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
- Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire in your home.
Charge devices safely.
- Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
- If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
- Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
- Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
Recycle batteries responsibly.
- Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the bin or regular recycling bins because they could start fire.
- Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them.
If you use rechargeable bikes, scooters, motorbikes, or mobility scooters make sure you follow our safety advice
- Do not store bikes, scooters, or mobility scooters in communal areas – store them in bike stores or in your flat.
- Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every floor of your home and in the room where you charge the bike/scooter.
- Always use the charger supplied with the device or recommended by the manufacturer
- If you spot signs of wear and tear or damage, buy an official replacement charger for your product from a reputable seller.
- Keep escape routes clear so you can evacuate quickly and safely.
- Do not charge the battery overnight.
- Do not charge the batteries for any longer than they need to fully charge.
- Plug the cable into a mains socket rather than an extension lead.