Preventing Lithium-Ion Battery Fires: Essential Tips for Home and Building Owners

Last week, a fire at an apartment complex in Cambridge, Ont. sent five people to hospital and displaced more than two dozen. The cause – a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery believed to belong to an e-bike / e-scooter.

The same week, an e-bike, stored on the outside of the ground floor unit caught fire and causes $40,000 in damages at apartment unit in Orillia, Ontario. 

In recent months, fires caused by lithium-ion batteries have become a significant concern, especially with the rise in popularity of electric mobility devices such as e-bikes, and e-scooters.  The Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs has highlighted that smaller mobility devices are particularly prone to these dangerous incidents.

To help you stay safe, here are some tangible tips to prevent lithium-ion battery fires.

1.    Avoid Tampering with Devices

One of the primary reasons for the increase in lithium-ion battery fires is tampering with smaller devices. People often try to modify these devices to make them faster or increase battery life, but this can lead to dangerous consequences.

Tip: Always use your devices as intended by the manufacturer. Avoid any modifications, including changing the battery or using a different charging cord.  As a general rule, only buy products that have UL or CE certification.

2.    Prevent Overcharging and Overuse

Overcharging and overusing lithium-ion batteries can lead to thermal runaway, a condition where the battery overheats, explodes, or bursts into flames. This process can cause fires to start quickly and spread rapidly.

Tip: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for charging. Do not leave devices plugged in after they are fully charged and avoid using them beyond their recommended limits.

3.    Supervise Charging Devices

Charging lithium-ion batteries unattended can be risky, as any malfunction can quickly escalate into a fire.

Tip: Always charge your devices in a safe location where you can monitor them. Ideally, charge them on a non-flammable surface and keep them away from combustibles.  Never charge them in an exit path or “just” inside your front door.

4.    Recognize Warning Signs

Batteries often show signs before they fail completely. These include unusual odors, swelling, or excessive heat.

Tip: If you notice any of these signs, stop using the device immediately. Move it to an outdoor area away from any flammable materials and seek professional help.  If you use these devices in your workplace, implement a documented inspection program of both the chargers and batteries themselves.

5.    Safe Disposal of Damaged Batteries

Improper disposal of damaged batteries can be a fire hazard. Ensure you handle them correctly.

Tip: Take damaged or old lithium-ion batteries to designated recycling or disposal facilities. Never throw them in regular trash bins.

6.    Educate and Equip Yourself

Understanding the risks and proper handling of lithium-ion batteries can significantly reduce the chances of a fire.

Tip: Educate yourself and your family or employees about the safe use and handling of these batteries. Consider keeping a fire extinguisher nearby, especially in areas where multiple devices are charged.

7.    Consider Professional Consultation

For workplaces, especially those dealing with large quantities of electronic devices, it may be beneficial to seek professional fire safety consultations.

For commercial and residential buildings, there are unique ways of addressing these risks.  Effective policies, procedures and having Lithium-Ion Battery fire safety addressed within your building’s fire safety plan are crucial – Followed by resident education is key!

Tip: Contact your fire safety consultant to assess your premises and provide tailored advice on mitigating the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

Final Thoughts

Lithium-ion batteries are a vital part of our daily lives, powering everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, their misuse can lead to dangerous fires. By following these practical tips, you can significantly reduce the risk and ensure a safer environment for your home or business.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and prioritize safety in your building. 

We can assist. www.nationallifesafetygroup.ca