Lithium-Ion Battery Safety: How to Protect Your Home and Family Across Australia

Understanding the Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere in Australian homes—powering smartphones, laptops, power tools, e-scooters, and even toys. While these batteries are incredibly efficient and long-lasting, they can pose significant risks if not used or maintained properly. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has reported a concerning rise in incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, including fires and explosions caused by improper charging, storage, or disposal 

 

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Real-Life Incidents Across Australia

Recent fires across Australia serve as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries:

• Forrestfield, WA: A family narrowly escaped a devastating fire sparked by a power tool battery. The house was destroyed, marking it as the 107th fire related to lithium-ion batteries in the state in 2025
• New South Wales: A significant number of fires and incidents in 2024 prompted inquests and investigations into the role of faulty batteries, especially in e-scooters and e-bikes).
• Queensland: Hospitals have reported an overwhelming number of burn unit admissions related to e-scooter and vape battery fires, demonstrating the significant dangers associated with these popular devices.

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Essential Safety Tips for Lithium-Ion Batteries

To reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires, here are some key safety tips:

Proper Use and Storage

• Charge on Non-Flammable Surfaces: Always charge lithium-ion powered devices on hard, non-combustible surfaces like concrete or ceramic. Avoid charging devices on beds, sofas, or carpets, which can catch fire
•  Avoid Overcharging: Never leave devices plugged in for extended periods, especially overnight. Overcharging can lead to overheating and fire risks
• Store in Cool, Dry Places: Lithium-ion batteries should be stored in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Use Original Chargers: Always use the manufacturer’s recommended charger. Non-certified chargers can lead to electrical malfunctions and overheating
  
  

Handling Damaged Batteries

• Signs of Damage: If a battery is swollen, leaking, or emits unusual smells, immediately stop using it. These are signs that the battery may catch fire
• Safe Disposal: Store damaged batteries in a non-flammable container and keep them in a cool, dry area until you can dispose of them at a certified recycling center. Do not throw them away with household trash
  
  

Recycling and Disposal

• Use Certified Drop-Off Points: Many cities in Australia have community recycling programs for safely disposing of used lithium-ion batteries. Check with your local council to find a drop-off point
• Never Dispose in Household Trash: Lithium-ion batteries should never be placed in general waste as they can catch fire in landfills or waste processing plants
  
  

Installing Smoke Alarms: A Vital Safety Step

While managing lithium-ion battery risks is crucial, it’s equally important to have working smoke alarms installed in your home. Smoke alarms provide early detection of a fire, giving you valuable time to escape and alert emergency services.

Why You Should Have Smoke Alarms in Key Areas:

• Bedrooms: Ensure that smoke alarms are installed in all sleeping areas. Fires can start at any time, even in the middle of the night, and smoke alarms give you crucial seconds to escape.
• Living Spaces and Hallways: Install alarms in common areas and hallways, especially near kitchens and garages where batteries may be charged or stored
• Garages or Storage Areas: These areas are often used to store battery-powered devices like power tools, bicycles, and other equipment. Installing heat alarms in these spaces can help catch fires early.

Heat Alarms are designed to detect increase in temperature rather than smoke.  This makes it ideal for areas where dust, fumes or humidity could cause false alarms in standard smoke alarms.  When the temperature reaches a set threshold (57 degrees), the heat alarm triggers alerting you to a potential fire.

How to Maintain Smoke Alarms:

• Test Monthly: Test alarms once a month to ensure they are functioning correctly.
• Change Batteries: Replace batteries at least once a year, even if the alarm isn’t beeping.
• Keep Clean: Dust and clean the alarm regularly to ensure it’s free from debris and will work when needed.
  

Regulatory Measures and Consumer Protection

Several Australian states have introduced regulations to improve lithium-ion battery safety:

• New South Wales: Starting February 2025, all lithium-ion battery-powered devices sold must comply with safety standards, reducing the risk of fires in e-scooters, e-bikes, and other micromobility devices (nsw.gov.au).
• Consumer Alerts: The ACCC has issued warnings about faulty power banks still circulating in the market, urging consumers to stop using recalled models. You can check for updates on the ACCC’s product safety website (news.com.au).
  
  

In Case of Fire

If a lithium-ion battery catches fire:

• Evacuate Immediately: Leave the area immediately and call Triple Zero (000).
• Use Fire Extinguishers Safely: For small fires, use a foam extinguisher, CO₂, or dry powder extinguisher. Do not attempt to put out large fires yourself; wait for emergency services.
• Avoid Inhalation: Do not breathe in smoke or fumes from burning lithium-ion batteries, as they can be toxic
  
  

Lithium-ion batteries are essential to modern life, but safety should always come first. By following proper charging, storage, and disposal practices, installing smoke alarms, and staying informed about recalls and safety regulations, Australians can significantly reduce the risks posed by these powerful batteries. Ensure your home is prepared for emergencies by maintaining working smoke alarms and understanding the potential dangers associated with battery-powered devices.

Checkout our wide range of smoke alarms

For more information and safety resources, visit the ACCC's Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Guide.