Charge safely – see photos of battery fire damage
Do you know how many batteries you have at home? Lithium-ion batteries are found in devices such as mobile phones, laptops, and robot vacuum cleaners. Larger lithium-ion batteries are used in electric bikes and scooters.
A lithium-ion battery is powerful and generally safe, but its efficiency also comes with risks. The risk of a battery fire is highest during charging and in the hours immediately after charging.
A battery fire is always intense
A battery often ignites with an explosion. The flames and sparks from the explosion can set fire to the surrounding area. The temperature rises rapidly to extreme levels. Extinguishing a burning battery is extremely difficult and requires specialized equipment even for professionals.
The larger the battery, the greater the destruction – especially fires caused by batteries in electric vehicles have been widely reported.
Do not leave a battery charging unattended
The best way to prevent a battery fire is to charge batteries safely. Here’s how to charge a battery safely:
- Unplug the device once charging is complete.
- Check before charging that both the device and the battery are intact.
- Use only the charger intended for the device and follow the instructions.
- Do not charge a battery near your only exit.
- Charge on a non-flammable surface, away from easily combustible materials.
- Charge under supervision—do not leave home or charge while sleeping.
Use safe batteries
When purchasing a device, pay attention to its safety:
- Choose well-known and reliable brands, stores, and sellers.
- Avoid ordering products from online stores outside the EU.
- Ensure that the product has a battery management system.
Do not use a battery if:
- The battery is damaged or swollen.
- The battery emits an odor.
- The battery heats up more than usual.
- The battery makes unusual noises.
- The battery is leaking.
What to do if a battery fire starts?
Attempt to extinguish a battery fire yourself only if it does not put you at risk. If you cannot quickly put out the fire or if it produces a lot of smoke, leave immediately and call emergency number 112. If possible, close doors behind you.
To fully extinguish a burning battery, it must be completely submerged in water. Smothering does not work on battery fires—using a fire extinguisher or fire blanket may temporarily put out the fire, but it can reignite.
Avoid, prepare, insure
Your actions affect both your own safety and the safety of everyone in the building. Small fire safety measures can save lives. Be sure to check out our other fire safety tips.
Even the best precautions cannot always prevent accidents. If an incident occurs, the best protection is home insurance.