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5 minute read
Lithium batteries and how to keep you and your home safe
Written by Aimee Cavener, senior marketing executive
Lithium-ion batteries play an essential part in everyday life. They can be found in mobile phones, laptops, scooters/e-bikes, e-cigarettes, and toys. When lithium-ion batteries overheat, are misused, or are defective, they can be prone to explosions. This can result in injuries and fires.
While they’re convenient, they can also be dangerous. If lithium-ion batteries are damaged, misused or faulty, they can overheat quickly and cause fires or explosions with little warning.
Why e-scooters and e-bikes are a higher risk
E-scooters and e-bikes use larger, more powerful batteries. This means:
- Fires can start and spread much faster
- They produce intense heat and toxic smoke
- They can block escape routes if stored or charged in hallways or near exits
Because of this, it’s especially important to handle and charge these devices safely in your home.
Charging safety: what you should do
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Charge devices on a hard, flat surface where heat can escape
- Keep chargers away from flammable materials
- Only use the charger provided with your device
- Keep batteries away from high heat (e.g. direct sunlight)
- Unplug once fully charged
- Never charge batteries while you’re asleep or out of the house
- Let batteries cool down before charging if they feel warm
- Replace damaged batteries through the manufacturer or a trusted retailer
- Take extra care when charging e-scooters and e-bikes
- Keep escape routes clear
- Charge in a well-ventilated space
- Avoid bringing e-scooters into confined or poorly ventilated areas where possible
- Always make sure smoke alarms are fitted and working nearby
Safe charging habits
- Don’t cover chargers or battery packs
- Don’t overload sockets or use unsuitable extension leads
- Regularly check your device for damage
- Don’t attempt to modify, repair or tamper with batteries
Warning signs to look out for
Stop using your device immediately if you notice:
- Overheating – very hot to touch
- Deformation – swelling, bulging or leaking
- Noise – hissing or cracking sounds
- Smell – strong or unusual odours
- Performance issues – slower charging or not holding charge
- Smoke – any visible smoke
What to do if there’s a risk
If a device starts smoking or catches fire, raise the alarm, leave immediately, and call 999.
If you think a battery may be failing, turn it off and unplug it straight away. Contact the manufacturer or retailer for advice.
Report faulty products to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service.
If you're a Home Group customer, you can report a broken or missing smoke detector.