As Victorians start ticking off their Christmas shopping lists, fire and safety authorities are urging everyone to think safety first when buying lithium-ion battery products, such as e-bikes, e-scooters, toys and portable devices.
The reminder comes as fire agencies across Victoria continue to respond to a growing number of fires linked to lithium-ion batteries, with incidents occurring roughly once a week across the state.
As the state’s energy safety regulator, Energy Safe Victoria warns it is crucial for people to choose reputable products that meet Australian safety standards, rather than cheap online items that could pose serious fire risks.
“We know tech and battery-powered devices are popular Christmas gifts, but unsafe or poor[1]quality products can be extremely dangerous,” Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson said.
“It only takes one faulty or damaged lithium-ion battery to cause a devastating fire. So, before you buy, make sure you’re choosing quality products from reputable suppliers.”
Lithium-ion batteries are found in an increasing range of household devices, but when incorrectly or over-charged, damaged or exposed to heat, they can go into ‘thermal runaway’ – a reaction that causes fires that are fast-spreading, toxic and difficult to extinguish.
Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) have joined Energy Safe in reminding the community to use and charge these devices safely.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said Victorians should avoid charging batteries overnight or while unattended and to only use the charger supplied with the device.
Image: Battery Batteries Rechargeable – Free photo on Pixabay
