Battery safety and safe usage

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in everyday life. You can find them in mobile phones, laptops, electric scooters, power banks, bicycles, power tools and many other devices.

Although lithium-ion batteries are efficient and make our lives more convenient, they also come with risks. These batteries become particularly dangerous when used or stored improperly.

Why are lithium-ion batteries dangerous?

They store a large amount of energy.
They contain flammable substances.
Incorrect use, improper storage or careless charging can lead to serious fires or even explosions.

How can you prevent the risk?

Avoid using battery-powered devices of unknown origin. The device must display essential safety information (e.g. voltage, power consumption) as well as the manufacturer's details. Devices and newer batteries must also carry the CE marking to confirm they comply with European regulations. You'll find recommendations for safe purchasing of electrical appliances by Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authoroty.
Regularly check your battery-powered devices for damage. A healthy battery should not be deformed (swollen or puffed up, or showing other visible signs of damage).
Always use a charger that is compatible with the battery specifications and recommended by the manufacturer.
Charge devices under supervision.
Ensure that the device or battery is not covered while charging, as they can overheat. Avoid charging in temperatures that are too low or too high – if the device has come from a cold environment, allow it to adjust to room temperature before charging.
Follow the product manual when using and charging the device.
Store batteries correctly – at room temperature, in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials. Also ensure battery-powered devices are not kept in escape routes or evacuation areas.
Never charge devices in stairwells or on escape routes, as they could obstruct evacuation in an emergency.
If a battery catches fire – evacuate and call for help. Make sure you have a working smoke alarm at home!
Batteries should never be thrown in the rubbish or mixed with household waste – take them to a recycling centre or collection point!

The five main lithium-ion battery hazards and how to avoid them

Always charge batteries or battery-powered devices when you are present, and unplug them immediately after charging is complete. Never charge them overnight or while you are away. Remember – a smoke alarm is mandatory in every home and can help detect fires early!
Do not use swollen, puffed-up or damaged batteries – they can ignite unexpectedly. Take damaged batteries to a hazardous waste collection point.
Charge devices at room temperature, away from heat sources (such as direct sunlight or radiators). Do not charge devices on sofas, beds or other flammable surfaces. Use the original charger or one that matches the battery's specifications as recommended by the manufacturer.
Keep batteries away from moisture. If a battery or device containing a battery is dropped, check for swelling or deformation. Electric scooters often get knocked around – regularly inspect their batteries.
Store lithium-ion batteries in a dry, well-ventilated area. Keep battery-powered devices out of direct sunlight, away from radiators and away from flammable materials. You can also use battery storage boxes or specially designed fireproof bags.

What to do if a battery catches fire

A lithium battery fire is typically intense, fast-spreading and can be extremely dangerous. If a battery catches fire, leave the room immediately and close the doors behind you to help contain the fire and smoke. Then call 112 and request emergency assistance.

Do not attempt to extinguish the fire yourself unless you know what you’re doing. Lithium battery fires burn very hot and can spread rapidly.
If it’s a small device and you have a fire blanket, a powder or foam fire extinguisher (suitable for electrical fires), a lithium battery-specific extinguisher or sand, you can try to slow the spread. If possible, move the device outside (e.g. in a metal bucket) and submerge it in water. Do not put yourself at risk – call for help if needed!
Never use water to extinguish a device with a lithium battery if it’s still plugged into the mains power – risk of electric shock!
Be aware that lithium battery fires produce toxic smoke and that devices can explode.
Devices with lithium batteries can reignite even after being extinguished. If possible, submerge the device in water and always call the fire brigade.

Are there special extinguishers for lithium batteries?

Currently, there is no unified European standard for evaluating the effectiveness of extinguishers on lithium battery fires. Most extinguishers cool the fire, but may not extinguish the chemical reaction. Their effectiveness also depends on the size of the battery and the extent of the fire.

If you use devices with lithium-ion batteries, consider getting a specialised Li-Ion fire extinguisher, a powder or foam extinguisher suitable for electrical fires, or a fire blanket for tackling smaller fires. Remember – lithium-ion batteries can reignite even after being extinguished. In case of fire, always call the fire brigade!

How to handle and dispose of batteries safely

If a battery is no longer in use, do not keep it for years in a drawer – take it to a recycling centre as soon as possible.
Old but intact batteries can be returned to the place of purchase or taken to a recycling centre.
Damaged, swollen or leaking batteries must be taken to a hazardous waste collection point.
Electronic waste is accepted free of charge from private individuals.