Our Electrical Safety Campaign aims to raise awareness about the fire risks related to lithium-ion batteries and electrical appliances and encourage the public to take the right action to prevent electrical fires in the home.
Understanding the Risks
Lithium-ion batteries, found in many everyday devices such as mobile phones, laptops, and power tools, are increasingly implicated in fire incidents. These batteries pose significant risks if not handled correctly, including the potential for thermal runaway—a dangerous situation where the battery overheats and can catch fire or explode. Household appliances like washing machines and tumble dryers are also common culprits in accidental dwelling fires.
We have seen a rise in incidents involving lithium-ion batteries over the last three years as products like hoverboards, e-bikes and e-scooters become increasingly popular. Over 70% of lithium battery fires we attended in the last three years occurred when the battery was being charged. In Lancashire, there have been 76 lithium battery-related incidents over the past three years, 46% of which were in the last year. According to Electrical Safety First, electrical appliances such as cookers, washing machines and tumble dryers cause nearly 12,000 fires and 3,000 injuries annually across the UK.
Key Safety Messages
Charging Safety:
Use the charger that came with your device.
Charge devices away from escape routes and living areas.
Buy genuine replacement batteries and chargers from trusted suppliers.
Store lithium batteries properly, avoiding contact with metal objects, and tape terminals before storage.
White Goods Safety:
Register your electrical appliances to receive safety updates from manufacturers.
Use extension leads safely; avoid overloading sockets.
Regularly clean filters and lint traps in washing machines and tumble dryers.
Do not leave dishwashers, washing machines, or tumble dryers running unattended, especially overnight.
Get Involved
LFRS encourages all residents to participate in the campaign by following the safety tips provided and staying informed through our social media channels. By adopting safe practices, we can collectively reduce the risk of fire incidents in our homes and communities.
For more information, head to our batteries page or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
Stay safe, stay informed, and help prevent electrical fires in your home.
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