The safety of residents is a key priority for Castles & Coasts Housing Association (CCHA), and we know there’s been a notable increase in fires relating to lithium batteries this year, and some have sadly been fatal.
Why do we use lithium-ion batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in anything from small items like mobile phones and laptops to larger items such as electric bikes, e-scooters, electric vehicles (EVs) and mobility scooters. This is because these batteries can store a very large amount of energy in a very small space.
Why are they a fire risk?
These types of battery become a fire risk when they’re over-charged, short-circuited or damaged, so it’s really important to charge them safely.
We've put some tips together to help you safely charge your lithium-ion batteries:
- Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Regularly check the condition of the battery. Look for any dents or signs of overheating. If you spot any dents, stop using/charging the battery straight away and have it replaced.
- Only use the charger supplied with the battery, because it’s designed to steadily charge the battery to avoid overcharging.
- If you don’t have the original charger, only use a replacement from the original manufacturer. Counterfeit chargers can be deadly, as overcharging, over discharging and charging the battery too quickly are some of the main causes of fires from lithium batteries.
- Don’t leave items plugged in and on charge continuously - disconnect the battery and unplug your charger when the charge cycle is complete.
- Charge batteries when you’re awake and alert so if there’s a fire, you can respond quickly. Don’t leave batteries to charge while you are asleep or away from the home.
- Charge your batteries in a safe place, away from places where they may stop you from escaping if there’s a fire.
- Don’t charge batteries close to combustible materials or hazardous substances.
- Don’t charge lithium batteries where there are high temperatures or directly in the sun.
- Don’t overload socket outlets or use inappropriate extension leads.
- Keep your lithium batteries uncovered when charging.
- Monitor the charging of your batteries if you can, especially if they’re powerful ones like e-bike or e-scooter batteries.
- Make sure you have early warning systems in place such as a working smoke alarm.
In the event of a lithium battery fire, do NOT try to extinguish the fire.
Get out. Stay out. Call 999.
If you have any queries at all about this letter, please contact our Health and Safety Team on 0800 085 1171 or by emailing cs@castlesandcoasts.co.uk