On Day 10 of 30Days30WaysAUS we’re focusing on the hot topic of lithium-ion battery safety.
Many portable devices today are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that can store a large amount of energy in a smaller amount of space than traditional batteries.
There has been a sharp rise in lithium-ion related incidents in South Australia over the past four years, with the Metropolitan Fire Service expecting this figure to rise.
Lithium-ion batteries power many households’ rechargeable devices, including:
Toys
Power tools
E-bikes and e-scooters
Mobility devices such as mobility scooters
Mobile phones
Smart watches and fitness trackers
Laptops and tablets
Vapes and e-cigarettes
Electric and hybrid vehicles
Home energy storage systems (home solar batteries)
Lithium-ion batteries pose a safety risk if not stored, used or disposed of properly, with the potential for reignition and fires releasing toxic gas.
Batteries that are incorrectly disposed of in regular household waste or home recycling bins, can cause fires during waste collection, transportation, handling, and processing.
How South Australians can help prevent incidents:
Always charge larger devices, such as e-bikes, e-scooters and power tools that utilise lithium-ion batteries outside and away from combustible materials.
A working smoke alarm or a heat alarm should be installed in any room, garage, or structure where lithium-ion batteries are stored.
Fire services recommend smoke alarms that are connected to 240-volt mains power with a battery backup, or alarms powered by a 10-year long-life battery. When more than one smoke alarm is installed, they should be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all alarms will sound.
Always store lithium-ion batteries and products in cool, dry places and out of direct sunlight.
Ensure safe charging practices for your device are adhered to.
Always dispose of batteries at an approved recycling facility. Contact your local council for locations.
If the battery or charger becomes damaged, discontinue use, and dispose correctly. Use a replacement battery or charger from the manufacturer.
Do not touch a device or lithium-ion battery that is emitting vapour, gas or is on fire. Evacuate the area and call Triple Zero (000).
For more information on lithium-ion Battery safety, visit the MFS Website