Lithium batteries: tips against fire risk
Lithium-ion batteries are finding ever wider use in Switzerland. Corresponding batteries are increasingly used in smartphones, laptops, digital cameras, e-bikes, DIY machines, household appliances and in model making. How dangerous is the use of these battery systems?
Lithium batteries are a young technology and the first commercial battery came on the market in 1991. The associated batteries are designed to store large amounts of energy. During the discharge process, they release the chemically stored energy. Because of their high energy density and chemical structure, accumulators carry a latent fire risk. However, the rising number of fire losses cannot be explained exclusively by the increasing spread of this technology, writes the Fire Prevention Advisory Council (BfB).
Both lithium batteries and their charging technologies are fundamentally safe. In most smartphones and other electronic devices, safety electronics prevent overcharging. In the case of lithium-polymer accumulators used in model making, electronic protection is often dispensed with due to the required light weight. According to the BfB, they therefore pose the greatest fire risk among rechargeable batteries. To prevent this, the BfB has compiled some protective measures.
Safety tips
The BfB safety tips are:
- Observe the warning and safety regulations of the manufacturer. By following the operating instructions, you reduce the risk of overheating to a minimum.
- Keep devices with lithium batteries away from heat sources. Also keep the batteries in a cool place away from sunlight.
- Any tampering with the batteries and battery units must be refrained from.
- Supervise the charging of the batteries. Flammable materials must be kept away during the charging process.
- If the batteries are deformed or if there is a suspicion of damage, they must not be put into operation.
- Accumulators are considered batteries in Switzerland. Return damaged or non-functioning accumulators to the sales or collection point.
Do not use fire extinguishers
If a fire should nevertheless occur, in the case of very powerful accumulators (e.g. for electric vehicles) deflagrations can occur in the form of a sudden pressure wave. In such cases, the fire department should be notified immediately. Small fires involving laptops, cameras and cell phones are best extinguished with a fire blanket by cutting off the air supply. According to the BfB, fire extinguishers should not be used because they cause a chemical reaction. Due to their toxicity, rising vapors should not be inhaled under any circumstances.
