Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries

Due to a significant increase in lithium-ion battery fires in recent months in the United Kingdom, we are reminding our tenants of the danger of charging lithium-ion batteries.

In the United Kingdom 8 deaths and 86 injuries were recorded as a result of electric bike and electric scooter fires in 2024.

66% of electric bike/scooter fires were within homes.

The Fire and Rescue Service in the United Kingdom now responds to more than 3 lithium-ion battery fires a day.

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in devices from phones to electric vehicles, but they pose a particular fire risk if they are damaged, incorrectly charged, or exposed to high temperatures.

Here’s some fire safety advice:

Make sure you:

• Use manufacturer-approved chargers only – buy from a reputable manufacturer.
• Charge on non-flammable surfaces away from beds, sofas, and curtains.
• Monitor charging – avoid overnight or unattended charging.
• Charge in cool, dry areas away from direct sunlight or heaters.
• Inspect batteries for damage before charging.

Don’t do:

• Don’t use damaged batteries or chargers.
• Don’t overcharge – unplug once fully charged.
• Don’t charge e-bikes or e-scooters in your means of escape (hallway/communal area)
• Don’t charge for near flammable materials like paper or fabric.
• Don’t modify or use incompatible charging equipment.