Lithium Batteries/Fires

Lithium Battery Fires: A Growing Risk at Home and Work

Let’s be honest, most of us don’t think twice about plugging things in.  We charge our phones overnight, leave laptops on desks all-day, plug-in power tools on site, leave an e-bike charging in the hallway or stockroom.

Lithium battery fires, once seen as rare, are happening far more frequently and they’re not just a home issue. They’re increasingly affecting workplaces, job sites, offices, warehouses, and shared spaces too.

Fatalities recorded by Fire and Rescue Services across the UK from these fires include cases where people became trapped inside their burning homes, died while trying to escape from a fire out of a high window, or from inhaling toxic smoke.

Key Statistics

Ø  4.8 fires per day in 2025, up from about two a day in 2022.

Ø  Fire and Rescue Services across the UK attended 1,760 lithium-ion battery fires in 2025.

Ø  Incidents have surged by 147% over a three-year period.

Ø  Electric bikes caused 520 of these fires in 2025—accounting for nearly a third (30%) of the total.

Ø  Approximately 46% of these incidents happen in residential homes, 31% occur outdoors, and 23% take place in commercial spaces.

The Fire and Rescue Service are increasingly concerned by the significant fire risk some of these vehicles/devices can pose especially when modified or purchased second hand.

So whether you’re at home or at work, this is very much your problem too.

Lithium batteries can fail through a process known as thermal runaway, where overheating triggers an uncontrollable reaction that can lead to fire or explosion.  These fires burn hotter, spread faster, and can reignite even after being extinguished.

Common causes include:

Ø  Using an incorrect charger

Ø  Overcharging

Ø  Physical damage to batteries

Ø  Poor-quality or counterfeit batteries

Ø  Exposure to excessive heat

At home, risks often come from charging devices overnight, using cheap chargers, or charging on beds, under pillows, on sofas and carpets.

In the workplace, risks increase with:

Ø  Charging multiple devices simultaneously

Ø  Battery-powered tools and equipment

Ø  E-bikes and scooters on site

Ø  Unsupervised charging areas e.g. power tools, FLTs etc

Most lithium battery fires are preventable if we:

Ø  Use manufacturer-approved chargers

Ø  Avoid overnight or unattended charging

Ø  Keep batteries away from flammable materials

Ø  Never charge devices in escape routes

Ø  Check for swelling, overheating, unusual smells, or damage

Ø  Buy batteries and chargers from reputable suppliers

Workplaces should also provide designated charging areas and ensure suitable fire detection and disposal procedures are in place. Staff should also be trained in battery safety.

Lithium batteries are here to stay, but safe charging habits can significantly reduce the risk of fire.

Before plugging in a device, ask yourself Is this being charged safely?

A little awareness goes a long way and can prevent a major incident.