Lithium Battery Fires: Why Charging Outdoors Could Save Your Home
E-bikes, e-scooters, power tools and other lithium-ion battery devices have become part of everyday life. However, they have also become one of the fastest-growing causes of house fires in Australia. When a lithium battery fails, it can ignite suddenly and burn with an intensity that is extremely difficult to control, often spreading before anyone has a chance to react. Why Lithium Batteries Are a Fire Risk Lithium-ion batteries can overheat and catch fire for a number of reasons, including: Safer Charging Habits Fire authorities recommend a few simple habits to help reduce the risk of a lithium battery fire: Many homeowners are now choosing to charge e-bikes, e-scooters and battery-powered tools outdoors, such as in a garage, carport or dedicated outdoor area, rather than inside living spaces or near bedrooms. If something does go wrong, the problem is more likely to be noticed quickly and is less likely to threaten the home. Add a Dedicated Outdoor Powerpoint If you don’t currently have power available outdoors, installing an additional weatherproof powerpoint is a simple and affordable way to create a safer charging location. A dedicated outdoor powerpoint gives you a purpose-built place to charge e-bikes, scooters and battery-powered tools away from the house. Our outdoor powerpoints are weatherproof and installed with the appropriate safety switch protection for added peace of mind. Let Capital Electrical & Smoke Alarms Help Capital Electrical & Smoke Alarms installs weatherproof outdoor powerpoints throughout the Gold Coast and Brisbane, giving homeowners a safer place to charge lithium battery devices. To book an installation or discuss your options, call 1300 516 021 This article provides general safety information only and is not a substitute for advice from your local fire authority.