Lithium Battery Awareness
NSW Fire and Rescue Lithium Battery Awareness
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Lithium-ion batteries are the fastest-growing fire risk in New South Wales. Fire and Rescue NSW wants members of the NSW community to understand the risks and be prepared if things go wrong.
FRNSW crews have responded to 13 lithium-ion battery fires across NSW since Sunday, 2 February 2025, including four incidents in a 12-hour period last week.
So far in 2025, there have been 25 lithium-ion-related fires.
Preparation is Key:
- Ensure functioning smoke alarms where batteries are charged or stored.
- Charge batteries on non-flammable surfaces like concrete floors, avoiding beds or sofas.
- Large batteries should only be charged in well-ventilated areas like garages or sheds.
Charging Caution:
- Never charge batteries unattended or when sleeping.
- Disconnect devices once fully charged.
- Avoid using and charging devices on flammable surfaces or if damaged.
Charging Essentials:
- Use only approved chargers with the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark.
- Beware of compatibility issues with chargers.
Safe Disposal:
- Never dispose of damaged batteries in regular waste bins.
- Use designated battery recycling drop-off points.
- Warning Signs:
- Dispose of damaged batteries promptly to mitigate fire risks.
Lithium Safety
- Only charge e-bikes, e-scooters, power tools in the garage or shed, away from living areas and exit doors.
- Never use or charge batteries or equipment showing signs of damage such as swelling, leaking, discolouration, or odours
- Only use chargers that comply with relevant standards and have been supplied with, or deemed compatible with, your battery or device
- Never leave devices on charge for extended periods (e.g. overnight) or unattended
- Switch off once fully charged
- Don’t charge phones on your pillow or in bed, only charge devices on hard surfaces
- Buy products from reputable brands and suppliers
For further information, go to https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/chargesafe