Rechargeable battery fires involving vapes, laptops and e-bikes on the rise

House fires involving rechargeable electrical devices such as vapes, laptops and e-bikes are on the rise, according to statistics released by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).

The figures show there were at least 26 fires involving devices powered by rechargeable batteries recorded in Scotland last year, compared to just three incidents in 2018.

Rechargeable batteries contain lithium-ion and are found in lots of household items, including mobile phones, laptops and vapes, as well as larger products like e-bikes, e-scooters and hoverboards.

If damaged, faulty or if improperly used, the batteries can catch fire, and in some cases cause explosions and the release of toxic fumes.

Assistant chief officer Jon Henderson, director of prevention, protection and preparedness, said: “Most homes have electrical products powered by lithium-ion batteries which recharge when plugged in such as mobile phones, laptops and more recently e-scooters and e-bikes.

“These items should be used safely and treated with respect as, when damaged or faulty, the batteries can cause significant fires which could have devastating results for you, your family and your home.

“Lots of these products will be purchased during the festive season and into the New Year and we recommend only buying from reputable dealers and only using approved chargers to make sure your Christmas list isn’t a fire risk.”

Watch Commander Kevin Ketchen, who attended a fire caused by an electric scooter battery in West Lothian last year, said: “When we arrived at the scene, the battery had exploded and was producing extreme heat and a thick flammable gas.

“There’s no doubt that it’s a frightening experience for those involved. We would ask people to ensure they have smoke detectors in place at home and never charge these items in escape routes like hallways or in bedrooms.”

Some key safety advice to reduce the risk of fire includes:

Buy from reputable retailers.
Only use approved chargers and unplug after charging.
Keep exit routes clear, never store or charge batteries in hallways and bedrooms.
Don’t charge when you’re asleep.
Know when to recycle a damaged or old device.
Never put batteries in bins at home.

Community safety minister Siobhian Brown, who said: “The rise in accidental fires in the home linked to electronic devices with rechargeable batteries is concerning and I welcome the updated safety advice and guidance from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service which sets out how to safely use and dispose of lithium-ion batteries.

“As these batteries can be found in many household items, it is vital that these are used, charged and stored carefully and safely. I urge everyone to be aware of the risks and if you ever see smoke or flames coming from a battery or device, never tackle it yourself: get out, stay out and call 999.”

Rechargeable batteries also pose a significant fire risk if they are binned instead of being recycled. These batteries can become crushed or damaged in bin lorries or waste sites which can lead to fires.

Zero Waste Scotland has advice on the best methods to dispose of batteries.

Paul Doherty, recycling manager at Zero Waste Scotland, said: “It’s so important that products like batteries are disposed of responsibly; it’s a must to help protect the environment, but it’s also vital for the safety of our families, neighbours, and waste and recycling personnel that handle the goods we throw away from our homes.

“Batteries and vapes should never be disposed of in general waste to avoid the risk of fire and contamination if they leak.

“Instead, batteries and single-use vapes should be deposited for recycling either at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC), or at in-store recycling receptacles found in any shop that sells these items regularly.”