Safety Guidance for Homes and Businesses
Lithium-ion battery fires are rising rapidly across the UK, creating a growing risk for both households and SME businesses. The recent devastating fire in Glasgow has again highlighted this risk.
These batteries power many everyday devices including smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, power tools and electric vehicles. While generally safe when used correctly, they can become extremely dangerous if damaged, poorly manufactured or incorrectly charged.
Recent data shows UK fire services attended over 1,300 lithium-ion battery fires in 2024, nearly double the number recorded just two years earlier.
For homeowners and businesses alike, understanding the risk – and managing it properly – has become an important part of modern risk management.
Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Can Catch Fire
Lithium-ion batteries store large amounts of energy in a small space. If something goes wrong inside the battery, it can trigger a process known as thermal runaway. This is where the battery overheats rapidly, flammable gases are released which may lead to the battery igniting or exploding
Unlike traditional electrical fires, lithium battery fires can burn extremely hot, re-ignite after being extinguished and prroduce toxic smoke.
This is why fire services treat them as high-risk ignition sources.
Further technical guidance can be found at:
- https://www.riskstop.co.uk/risk-guides/fire-risk-and-insurance-tackling-lithium-battery-challenges
- https://qbeeurope.com/news-and-events/press-releases/fires-caused-by-lithium-ion-batteries-double-in-two-years/
Common Devices Containing Lithium Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are now found in many everyday products including:
- Smartphones and tablets
- Laptops and portable electronics
- E-bikes and e-scooters
- Electric vehicles
- Power tools and garden equipment
- Portable medical equipment
- Vaping devices
Because these devices are frequently charged indoors, the risk of fire often occurs inside homes, garages, workshops or commercial buildings.
Lithium Battery Fire Risks for SME Businesses
Many SMEs unknowingly accumulate large numbers of lithium batteries on site, particularly in sectors such as:
- Construction and trades using rechargeable power tools
- Warehousing and logistics operations
- Retail businesses selling e-bikes or electronics
- Vehicle workshops working on electric vehicles
- Offices with numerous laptops and portable devices
Common risk factors include:
- Charging batteries overnight
- Storing multiple batteries together
- Using non-approved chargers
- Damaged or counterfeit batteries
- Poor storage conditions
From an insurance perspective, these exposures can increase property damage and business interruption risks if not properly managed.
Lithium Battery Fire Risks in Homes
Lithium battery fires in homes often occur during charging. Typical causes include:
- Charging devices overnight while asleep
- Using cheap or incompatible chargers
- Charging devices on beds or sofas
- Damaged batteries or replacement batteries bought online
- Leaving devices charging unattended
Fire services have reported serious injuries and fatalities linked to battery fires, highlighting the importance of basic safety precautions.
Simple Lithium Battery Safety Tips
Whether at home or in business premises, the following precautions can significantly reduce fire risk.
- Use manufacturer-approved chargers – Avoid cheap replacement chargers or adapters.
- Avoid overnight charging – Charge devices when someone is present and awake.
- Charge on a hard surface – Never charge batteries on sofas, beds or carpets.
- Inspect batteries regularly – If a battery becomes swollen, damaged or unusually hot, stop using it immediately.
- Store batteries safely – Businesses should consider dedicated storage areas away from combustible materials.
Why Risk Management Matters
Lithium battery technology is essential to modern life, but the rapid growth of battery-powered devices means fire risk management is becoming increasingly important.
For homeowners this means adopting safe charging habits.
For businesses it may involve reviewing fire protection, electrical safety and storage practices.
Insurance can provide protection against financial loss, but prevention remains the most effective safeguard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes lithium battery fires?
Lithium battery fires usually occur due to thermal runaway, which may be triggered by overheating, damage, poor manufacturing or incorrect charging.
Are lithium battery fires increasing in the UK?
Yes. UK fire services attended over 1,300 lithium battery fires in 2024, almost double the number recorded two years earlier.
Are e-bikes a major cause of lithium battery fires?
E-bikes and e-scooters have become one of the fastest growing causes of battery fires because of their high-capacity batteries and frequent indoor charging.
Can lithium batteries reignite after being extinguished?
Yes. Lithium battery fires can reignite because chemical reactions continue inside the battery even after the flames appear to be out.
How can businesses reduce lithium battery fire risk?
Businesses should implement simple controls such as:
- safe charging procedures
- approved chargers
- proper battery storage
- fire detection and suppression systems
Expert Advice from Munro-Greenhalgh
At Munro-Greenhalgh Ltd, we work with businesses and homeowners across Bury, Ramsbottom and Greater Manchester and our Insurer Partners to identify emerging risks and ensure appropriate protection is in place.
If you would like guidance on managing property risks or reviewing your insurance cover, our experienced team would be happy to help.
