Rechargeable battery fires “on the rise” warns Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

Rechargeable batteries contain lithium-ion and are found in lots of household items, including mobile phones, laptops and vapes, as well as larger products such as e-bikes, e-scooters and hoverboards. If damaged, faulty or otherwise improperly used, the batteries can catch fire and, in some cases, cause explosions and the release of toxic fumes.

Firefighters are urging members of the public to follow stated safety advice for this type of product, such as how to charge safely and how to spot a damaged battery before it’s recycled.

New campaign

Launching a new campaign designed to boost battery safety, SFRS assistant Chief Fire Officer Jon Henderson (director of prevention, protection and preparedness) commented: “Most homes play host to electrical products powered by lithium-ion batteries, which recharge when plugged-in. Those products include mobile phones, laptops and e-scooters and e-bikes. These items should be used safely and treated with respect as, when damaged or faulty, the batteries can cause significant fires, which could have devastating results for families and their homes.”

Henderson continued: “We recommend only buying from reputable dealers and only using approved chargers.”

Watch Commander Kevin Ketchen, who attended a fire caused by an electric scooter battery in West Lothian, said: “When we arrived at the scene, the battery had exploded and was producing extreme heat and a thick flammable gas. There’s no doubt that it’s a frightening experience for those involved. We would ask people to ensure they have smoke detectors in place at home and never charge these items in escape routes like hallways or in bedrooms.”

Safety advice

The SFRS has issued key safety advice to reduce the risk of fire:

*buy from reputable retailers

*only use approved chargers and unplug after charging

*keep exit routes clear

*never store or charge batteries in hallways and bedrooms

*don’t charge items when everyone’s asleep

*know when to recycle a damaged or old device

*never put lithium-ion batteries in bins at home

Backing the campaign is community safety minister Siobhian Brown, who said: “The rise in accidental fires in the home linked to electronic devices with rechargeable batteries is concerning. We welcome the updated safety advice and guidance from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, which sets out how to safely use and dispose of lithium-ion batteries.”

Brown continued: “As these batteries can be found in many household items, it’s vital that these are used, charged and stored carefully and safely. I urge everyone to be aware of the risks and if you ever see smoke or flames coming from a battery or device, never tackle it yourself. Call 999.”

Disposal methods

Rechargeable batteries also pose a significant fire risk if they’re binned instead of being recycled. These batteries can become crushed or damaged in bin lorries or waste sites, which can then lead to fires.

Zero Waste Scotland has advice on the best methods to dispose of batteries. Paul Doherty, recycling manager at Zero Waste Scotland, affirmed: “It’s so important that products like batteries are disposed of responsibly. It’s a ‘must’ to help protect the environment, but it’s also vital for the safety of our families, neighbours and waste and recycling personnel who handle the goods we throw away from our homes.”

Doherty said: “Batteries and vapes should never be disposed of in general waste to avoid the risk of fire and contamination if they leak. Instead, batteries and single-use vapes should be deposited for recycling either at local Household Waste Recycling Centres or at in-store recycling receptacles found in any shop that sells these items on a regular basis.”

*Additional safety advice is available online at www.firescotland.gov.uk