Staying safe - lithium batteries
Lithium (lithium-ion) batteries come in all shapes and sizes, and are used to power everything from kids’ toys to mobile phones to electric vehicles.
They are very useful but create risks too, especially when damaged, overcharged, or stored improperly.
In 2024 lithium-ion batteries were linked to 1,330 fires in 2024, twice as many as in 2022. Since 2020, fires linked to lithium-ion batteries have resulted in 10 deaths and 190 injuries, according to the British Safety Council.
What is a lithium battery?
Lithium batteries come in different shapes and sizes and are increasingly used in many household appliances and items such as electric toothbrushes, tools, toys, mobile phones, tablets, laptops and in vapes. They are also used to power e-bikes and e-scooters, and Electric Vehicles.
What can be dangerous about these batteries?
Although lithium batteries are generally safe, they can become highly dangerous when something goes wrong. When damaged or overheated, lithium-ion batteries can enter a process called thermal runaway - a rapid chemical reaction that causes intense heat and pressure to build up. This heat spreads to nearby cells, causing the battery to ignite spontaneously at temperatures between 700°C and 1000°C.
As the cells break down, they release flammable gases, which can lead to explosions in enclosed spaces, and fires caused by thermal runaway spread extremely fast. These fires are difficult to extinguish and can reignite hours or even days later, especially in larger batteries like those in electric vehicles.
What should I do to stay safe?
- Charge Safely: Never charge batteries while sleeping or on flammable surfaces like beds or couches. Only use the charger provided with the device.
- Storage: Keep e-scooters and e-bikes out of living areas and away from escape routes.
- Warning Signs: Immediately stop using a battery if it becomes hot, deformed, changes colour, or makes noise.
- Disposal: Do not throw batteries in household bins. Use designated recycling points, such as the Linford Household Waste and Recycling Centre (SS17 0PP), to prevent fires.