Surrey Fire & Rescue Service Urges Residents to Stay Safe with Lithium-ion Batteries

Published on: 4 Jan, 2025
Updated on: 6 Jan, 2025

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) recently attended fire caused by a lithium-ion-powered mobility scooter charging in a communal hallway in Guildford.

Thanks to the quick response of the crews, the fire was contained, and residents were kept safe.

However, the incident highlights the risks posed by charging devices in communal areas or blocking escape routes, as well as the importance of following safety guidelines for lithium-ion batteries.

People are advised to store devices containing lithium-ion batteries away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and flammable materials, as well as away from exits and hallways.

This is particularly important when charging vehicles with lithium-ion batteries, which are advised to be charged in an outside location away from the main means of escape from residential properties.

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service’s ongoing #BatteryWise campaign aims to educate the public on the proper use, charging, and storage of batteries to prevent such potentially life-threatening scenarios.

Further key safety tips include:

Use the right charger: Always use the manufacturer-approved charger for your device, and avoid off-brand alternatives.
Don’t overcharge: Unplug devices once they’re fully charged to avoid overheating the battery.
Inspect for damage: If your battery shows signs of swelling, leakage, or damage, stop using the device immediately and dispose of the battery safely.
Dispose of properly: Never throw lithium-ion batteries in household waste. Dispose of them at dedicated recycling centres or designated drop-off points.

Watch Commander Spencer Nicholls from the Fire Investigation team said: “Incidents like these are a reminder of the hidden dangers lithium-ion batteries can pose when not used or stored properly. Through our #BatteryWise campaign, we want to ensure everyone understands these risks and takes the necessary precautions.

“We urge people to store items containing lithium-ion batteries safely. Please charge any vehicles such as e-scooters, e-bikes or mobility scooters in a safe place, away from the exit pathways in your properties. ”

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to review their battery use and share safety messaging to help prevent similar incidents. While these batteries power items, they also pose a serious fire risk if damaged, mishandled, or charged incorrectly. There is also risk of old batteries spontaneously combusting without warning.

For more information and safety tips, visit SFRS’s social media channels or search #BatteryWise on social media.