The Battery, the Dryer and the Rodent
Words Courtesy of FMG Insurance
Every year we support hundreds of clients who’ve suffered fires in their homes or farm buildings. Although FMG can help with replaceable items, there is also emotional stress and the potential loss of irreplaceable treasured possessions. Fires in buildings are often preventable if the right measures are taken. In Autumn there are some slightly unusual fire risks that are good to be aware of…
Charging your devices – lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode.
We’ve seen clients who have suffered losses to their buildings, contents and vehicles caused by lithium-ion batteries. One of these was a total loss house fire that cost $1 million dollars to replace. The fire was caused by batteries charging in the garage. Many modern devices are powered by lightweight, high-energy lithium-ion (liion) batteries. These power our phones, laptops, tools, e-bikes, e-scooters, vapes and even cars.
Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire for several reasons:
- Overcharging or using incorrect chargers.
- Overheating or exposure to extreme temperatures (hot or cold).
- Physical damage like drops or punctures.
- Short-circuits, malfunctions, or manufacturing defects.
When these batteries fail they can emit toxic, flammable and explosive gas that can cause intense, self-sustaining fires that are difficult to extinguish so it's important that you read and follow the prevention advice below.
10 Ways to Prevent Device or Battery Fires
- Avoid leaving devices charging unattended or overnight.
- Disconnect fully charged batteries and devices.
- Avoid exposing devices to heat, moisture or direct sunlight.
- Only buy genuine devices and equipment.
- Only buy devices and equipment from trustworthy manufacturers and retailers.
- Only use the correct and approved chargers for your device.
- Never charge devices on flammable surfaces.
- Never charge your devices in bed, or on flammable material or surfaces.
- Discard damaged devices showing signs of swelling, leakage or overheating.
- Installing approved smoke or heat alarms in charging areas will help give an early warning of extreme battery overheating or fire.