Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery Safety Advice

From vapes to bikes, our lives are increasingly powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. But while they’re relatively safe, convenient, and efficient, many people don’t realise how dangerous they can potentially be, if they are used and handled incorrectly.

Although lithium-ion batteries are generally safe, there is the potential for fierce fires, toxic fumes, and explosions when vital signs or preventative advice gets ignored.

What are Lithium-Ion batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries used in many everyday devices. They store energy and release it when needed. They’re small, lightweight, charge quickly, and last a long time.

Where are they used?

You’ll find them in mobile phones, laptops, e-scooters, vapes, vacuum cleaners, power tools, and more. They help keep our devices portable and convenient and are safe when charged correctly.

Charging Safety Tips

  • Never charge a damaged battery

  • Use the correct charger and unplug when done

  • Let batteries cool before recharging

  • Charge on hard, flat surfaces

  • Don’t block escape routes with charging devices

  • Charge away from exits

  • Never charge while sleeping or unattended

  • Have a fire escape plan

  • Install smoke alarms near charging areas

Why can they be dangerous?

Although generally safe, lithium-ion batteries can become dangerous if damaged or misused. They can catch fire, releasing toxic fumes and they burn at an intense heat, or they could even explode. Fires caused by these batteries are usually ferocious and hard for firefighters to put out and they can reignite.

How can a lithium-ion battery get damaged?

  • By dropping the device

  • Crushing or puncturing the battery

  • Leaving it in extreme heat (like a hot car)

  • Exposing it to freezing temperatures

  • Using the wrong charger

  • Getting a battery or device wet

  • Poor manufacturing can cause defects

Warning signs to look out for if a battery is failing

  • It feels extremely hot

  • Bulging or swelling shape

  • Hissing or cracking sounds

  • Giving off a strong or unusual smell

  • Charging problems (slow or incomplete)

  • Smoke coming from the device

If you notice any of these signs:

  • Unplug the device immediately if it’s charging

  • Stop using it

  • Don’t ever try to open or fix it yourself

  • Contact the manufacturer for advice

  • If a fire occurs, get out, stay out, call 999

Advice around DIY electric bike conversion kits

Turning a standard pedal bike into an electric bike always needs to be done by a professional, to ensure it’s done safety and meets the UK safety standards.

  • Buy from a reputable seller, not second hand

  • Never modify or tamper with the battery, motor or charger yourself

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions

  • Ensure you charge the battery with the correct charger

  • Remember damaged batteries could become dangerous

Recycling Lithium Batteries

Don’t throw them in household bins. They can cause fires or chemical burns in rubbish trucks. Check your local council’s guidelines for safe disposal.

Further information available on: Consumer products: recycling batteries and electrical waste - GOV.UK

For statutory guidelines which sets out the safety mechanisms that lithium-ion batteries for e-bikes must contain to address the risk of thermal runaway, which happens when the temperature of individual battery cells contained within a battery reaches a critical point and reactions occur visit Gov.uk

For further advice please email feedback@cheshirefire.gov.uk.


Last updated: Friday, 7 November 2025


Share