Batteries and electronics
Chances are, you've got dozens of battery-powered devices and electrical appliances scattered around your home. Each of these devices carries a fire safety risk. Here are some tips for using appliances safely.
On this page
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Batteries, chargers & multi-plugs -
Lithium-ion batteries -
Li-ion battery safety -
Appliances -
Leads and cords
Batteries, chargers & multi-plugs
Heat-generating devices include anything that produces heat when in use, even small appliances like hairdryers and toasters.
- Remember if it heats or cools, it plugs into the walls.
- Chargers and cords are not damaged, modified or used with incompatible devices.
- Devices with lithium batteries are not used or charged after being dropped of damaged.
- Electrical cords aren’t frayed, damaged or modified.
- Electrical cords aren't coiled, or underneath carpet or bedding.
- Charging takes place on a hard, flat surface.
Lithium-ion batteries
These days, lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are everywhere, from e-bikes and e-scooters to vapes and power tools. They are light, compact, and long-lasting, but can be a fire hazard if they are damaged, mishandled, or improperly disposed of.
Li-ion safety tips
- Do your research. Only purchase and use devices and equipment from reputable manufacturers and suppliers.
- Only use chargers and batteries supplied with the device, or certified third-party charging equipment compatible with the battery specifications (same voltage and current).
- Always charge e-scooters and e-bikes away from exits to ensure you can safely escape in the event of a fire. Where possible these should be stored and charged outside or in a garage, shed or carport, away from living spaces.
- For smaller devices, such as vapes, phones, and laptops, do not charge these under a pillow, on the bed or on a couch – they can overheat and cause a fire.
- Do not overcharge your batteries. When your item is fully charged, disconnect it from the charger.
- Always store lithium-ion battery devices in cool dry spaces, out of direct sunlight.
- Only get device repairs and battery replacements done by a qualified professional.
- A working smoke alarm or a heat alarm should be installed in any room, garage or structure where lithium-ion batteries are regularly charged.
If you see smoke or flames
If a device or battery starts to smoke or emit flames:
- Evacuate immediately and close doors (if safe) to slow the spread of fire.
- Once in a safe location, call 111 and wait for firefighters to arrive.
- Ensure no one goes back inside the building for any reason. Battery gases, vapour and smoke are highly toxic and flammable and must not be inhaled.
- If anyone has been exposed to battery fluids, debris, smoke, vapours, or flames, seek urgent medical assistance.
Overheating
If a small battery or device such as a vape or phone starts overheating:
- Unplug it from the power outlet if it is charging.
- If possible, move it outside, away from any flammable material and windows or doorways.
- Small devices can be dropped into a bucket of water or sand if this can be done safely.
- If your device starts to smoke or release fumes, evacuate immediately to a safe location and call 111.
Battery disposal
- Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the rubbish.
- Recycling is always the best option – contact your local council for a recycling location.
- Do not leave discarded batteries in piles.
Appliances
Chances are, you've got dozens of appliances scattered around your home. Each of these devices carries a fire safety risk. Here are some tips for using appliances safely.
- Turn off appliances when not in use. If practical, unplug them at the wall as well.
- Keep all electrical appliances away from water.
- When buying second hand appliances, ensure they've been tested by a licensed electrician or gas fitter, and have been certified as safe.
- Do not place fans, heaters, televisions or other electrical equipment in areas without good airflow, as they may overheat.
- If you're worried about the conditions of any appliances (like electric blankets, heaters, air conditioners or fans), have them checked by a qualified electrician.
Leads and cords
- Don't overload multi-boards. At most, plug in one appliance per wall or multi-board socket.
- Never plug an adaptor or multi-board into another adaptor or multi-board.
- Make sure leads and cords are in good condition and not frayed.
- Never put extension cords under carpets or mats, and avoid using them while they are tightly coiled.
- Ensure furniture does not rest on top of electrical leads.
- Remember that extension cords are not designed to be permanent replacements to your home's internal wiring.