18/11/2025
Why Lithium-ion Batteries Can Be Dangerous
Lithium-ion batteries are in a lot of our rechargeable devices – phones, laptops, e-scooters, power tools, and even vacuum cleaners. But when they’re damaged, overheated, or charged incorrectly, they can become a serious fire hazard.
They can catch fire or explode – even when not being charged. More than 30% of Li-ion battery fires happen when the battery is not being charged.
The smoke is toxic, filling a room quickly with harmful chemicals that are dangerous for our lungs.
Fires spread fast – up to 10 times faster than regular house fires.
Explosions can throw hot metal and flames several metres, igniting nearby items.
Improper disposal (like tossing batteries in household bins) can cause fires in rubbish trucks or landfills.
Most homes have 20–30 devices with lithium-ion batteries, increasing the risk if safe habits aren’t followed.
Common Causes of Lithium-ion Battery Fires:
Many incidents are linked to simple, preventable mistakes. Here’s what often goes wrong:
Using cheap or fake chargers that don’t meet safety standards.
Charging immediately after heavy use, when the battery is still hot.
Keeping the Battery on charge after its full (overcharging).
Physical damage, dropping, crushing, or puncturing the battery.
Leaving the battery in heat or sunlight, especially in cars, near windows, or under bedding. This traps heat and can make the battery hot.
Charging in unsupervised areas, like garages or overnight while asleep.
Using the battery until it’s completely empty (0%), which can damage it.
These issues can damage the battery’s internal separator, leading to short circuits and a dangerous reaction called thermal runaway – where the battery overheats uncontrollably and may catch fire or explode!
High-Risk Devices:
E-scooters and e-bikes are increasingly involved in fires.
Power tools stored in sheds or garages can ignite if damaged or charged improperly.
Battery fires in WA are rising – DFES recorded 94 incidents this year, with 55 structure fires and 19 caused by e-chargeables.
Safety Tips to Prevent Fires
Let batteries cool down before charging.
Charge on hard, flat surfaces – never on beds, couches, or carpets.
Avoid charging in direct sunlight or when no one is home.
Use only manufacturer-approved chargers.
Check batteries for damage or swelling – don’t use if they look unsafe.
Install smoke alarms in charging areas and thermal alarms in garages.
Take action this month!
Review where and how you charge devices at home.
Talk with your family about battery safety - especially with kids and teens.
Check your smoke alarms and make sure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire.
Make sure you have a Home fire Escape plan.
Find your nearest battery recycling location and safely dispose of any old or damaged batteries.
Let’s work together to keep our homes and community safe from battery fires.
For more information, visit the lithium-ion batteries page on the DFES website.
