Staffs Fire Service launches campaign in efforts to stop lithium-ion battery fires

The Fire Service has launched its Buy Safe, Charge Safe campaign again as part of wider efforts to limit the chances of accidental lithium-ion battery fires from happening in Staffordshire.

E-bikes, e-scooters, mobile phones, laptops and other electronic devices are all powered by lithium-ion batteries. Counterfeit batteries and chargers are significant fire safety hazards and are likely sitting in most people’s homes, or being wrapped up as gifts for Christmas.

If they catch fire or overheat significantly, they can cause widespread damage and are incredibly difficult to contain. These fires can happen because of manufacturing defects or owner negligence.

Head of Prevent and Protect, Ian Read, said: “Lithium-ion batteries are in most people’s homes and businesses. If people don’t know how to make sure they are safe, they can cause widespread damage.

“We’re urging people over the Christmas period to make sure they know the signs of faulty or counterfeit charges and batteries. Being able to spot the signs early can be the difference between life and death.”

A good way of remembering these signs is by using the SANTA checklist:

• Smoke - Is smoke coming out of your device or battery?
• Aroma - Is there a strong or unusual smell coming from the battery?
• Noise - Can you hear your battery hissing or cracking? Is your device making any other unusual sounds?
• Temperature - Does your device or battery feel extremely hot to touch?
• Appearance - Does the battery look swollen? Has it drastically changed shape?

If you notice any of the above, you must immediately:

• Turn off the device
• Unplug it from the power source
• Call the device manufacturer or retailer for further instructions.

In the event of smoke or fire coming from your device, you must:

• Raise the alarm
• Vacate the building
• Call 999

If you’re thinking of buying an electronic device, please make sure you only buy chargers and batteries from reputable retailers. It might cost you a little bit more, but your life is worth more than a bargain that is too good to be true.

Check your battery regularly for any signs of damage. This should especially be done if the battery has been dropped or if you have crashed your e-bike or e-scooter. Even if you think there is a slight chance that your battery is damaged, you should not use or charge it, and you must replace it immediately.

For more information, please visit: Buy Safe. Charge Safe (staffordshirefire.gov.uk)