Lithium-ion batteries power most pieces of modern technology – from mobile phones to electric vehicles. Despite being small and convenient, fires caused by lithium batteries are rising and they pose a serious risk. In this article, we highlight the importance of staying protected from this compact, yet deceivingly powerful, piece of technology.
Why lithium batteries are a growing concern
Lithium batteries are prone to overheating, leaking and even exploding under certain conditions.
Data from Allianz, a leading insurance provider who we partner with, reveals that fires caused by lithium batteries now average £50,000 per claim. In one severe case, a battery-powered vacuum cleaner caused a fire leading to a staggering £420,000 claim.
In addition to this, statistics from the London Fire Brigade show that 673 fires involved lithium batteries or devices since January 2023, highlighting the scale of the problem. Similarly, the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service also reports a worrying rise in lithium battery fires. In 2024, they responded to 55 battery-related fires, compared to just 13 incidents in 2021. These fires spread quickly and are notoriously difficult to extinguish.
According to the Environmental Services Association, lithium batteries were linked to 48% of waste fires in 2022. These incidents cost £158 million annually in damage and firefighting resources, while releasing harmful smoke that impacts the environment.
Charging electric vehicles from a home charging point adds another layer of concern. Improper charging setups, such as using standard household outlets not designed for EVs, can lead to overheating, electrical faults and fires.
Environmental factors like water damage during floods or storms can also compromise EV batteries, triggering delayed fires that are difficult to control. Ensuring EVs are charged with certified equipment installed by professionals is vital to reduce these risks and protect homes from preventable fires.
The issues that can cause these fires
There are some leading causes that heighten the risk of lithium battery fires. In relation to home fires, these include:
- 78% of people regularly charge their batteries overnight, while 28% say that aren’t concerned about this or consider it to be a risk.
- 74% of UK households hold onto old devices with these batteries.
- Almost half (45%) use uncertified chargers.
53% of people say house fires are their biggest fear when it comes to their homes and possessions. Nearly three-quarters (73%) believe it would be the most devastating thing to happen to their homes over theft and storm damage.
This may sound extreme to assume that overcharging can cause a fire, but just recently we came across an article noting that a house was left with smoke and heat damage after a fire was started by a phone overheating from charging.
How to minimise the risk of lithium fires
Here are some of our top tips to avoiding fires caused by lithium devices:
- Avoid to minimise the amount of times you charge devices overnight, as overcharging can cause overheating.
- Only use chargers recommended by the manufacturer to reduce overheating risks. Off-brand chargers often deliver incorrect wattage, causing damage to batteries.
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from heat or flammable materials.
- Never throw lithium batteries in household waste. Dispose of old or damaged batteries at recycling centres or drop-off points.
- Inspect batteries regularly for signs of wear, such as bulging, leaks or overheating.
