Learn how to charge safely
Lithium-ion batteries are the most common type of rechargeable battery used to power devices. You need to charge them safely to avoid a fire by using the battery and charger recommended by the manufacturer.
Aftermarket products are not always compatible with your devices. Just because the plug fits doesn’t mean the charger is compatible. Using incompatible batteries and chargers can lead to batteries becoming overcharged which starts a chemical reaction called thermal runaway, resulting in a violent battery fire. You can see how this occurs in our video below.
Purchasing generic replacement batteries and chargers may save you money, but it could have dangerous consequences. Always buy genuine replacement products as recommended by the manufacturer of your device.
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Thermal runaway demonstration
The process of thermal runaway starts when a battery cell overheats, perhaps due to an internal fault, physical or electrical abuse, or extreme temperatures caused by overcharging. This test was carried out by the UK charity Electrical Safety First to demonstrate the speed and intensity of a thermal runaway event in a lithium-ion battery.
Buying replacement batteries and chargers
Buying electrical appliances, such as replacement batteries and chargers, that do not meet Australia's safety Standards can result in electric shock, house fires, injury or death.
This video contains a few handy tips to help you buy safe household electrical equipment.
Look for the warning signs of battery damage
Batteries that show any signs of damage should be disposed of carefully as they carry the risk of fire. Look for signs such as swelling or bulging, leaking, cracks, dents, punctures, or crushing; overheated batteries that may have vapours or smoke; batteries that have been in water; batteries that have been in or exposed to fire.
Never make alterations to batteries
Always use a licensed electrician to carry out servicing and installations. A significant number of incidents involving lithium-ion batteries are caused by devices that have been built or engineered by inexperienced or unqualified people.
Don't take unnecessary risks by working on lithium-ion batteries - they can be highly dangerous. Serious injuries and fatalities have occurred by mishandling lithium-ion batteries. Cheap, unprotected, and second-hand batteries used in DIY projects have also led to severe fires causing significant loss.
Further information
Learn more about battery safety, the risk of fire, and how to dispose of batteries safely.
CFA advice on battery safety
Visit the CFA website to learn more.
FRV advice on battery safety
Visit the FRV website to learn more.
Safe disposal of lithium-ion batteries
Visit the Sustainability Victoria website to learn how to dispose of lithium-ion batteries and other e-waste safely.