Damaged rechargeable batteries, unsafe chargers, poor-quality products and unsafe charging habits can cause fires that develop very quickly and produce dangerous toxic smoke.
- Always use the battery and charger recommended by the manufacturer.
- Do not leave batteries charging while you are asleep or away from home.
- Do not charge batteries in bedrooms, hallways, by front doors or anywhere they could block your escape route.
- Charge batteries on a hard, flat surface in a well-ventilated area.
- Do not cover chargers or battery packs while charging.
- Buy batteries, chargers and devices from reputable retailers and avoid substandard or counterfeit products.
Safe charging and storage
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and using your device. Unplug chargers when charging is complete.
Keep batteries and chargers away from direct sunlight, radiators, hot places and combustible materials.
If the battery can be removed, charge it separately on a hard flat surface where heat can disperse.
Don't overload sockets and avoid using inappropriate extension leads.
If you use a larger device such as an e-bike, e-scooter or mobility aid, charge it clear of exits and not in communal areas or escape routes.
E-bikes and e-scooters (Fire Kills)
Warning signs of a faulty or unsafe battery
Stop using or charging a battery straight away if it becomes extremely hot, swollen, leaking, misshapen, noisy, smelly, slow to charge, unable to fully charge or begins to smoke.
If a battery starts smoking or catches fire
Get out immediately, stay out, close doors behind you if you can and call 999. Don't try to tackle the fire yourself.
Disposal and end-of-life batteries
Don't put lithium-ion batteries or damaged battery-powered devices in household waste or normal recycling bins. Use local recycling facilities or take-back schemes where available.