RACQ and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) are warning Queenslanders to be alert to the potential fire dangers of lithium-ion batteries.

Despite many of today’s commonly used portable devices containing lithium-ion batteries – including mobile phones, tablets, toys and e-scooters – more than half of Queenslanders can’t tell the difference between them and traditional batteries.

RACQ research found two-thirds of respondents would not know what to do if a lithium-ion battery caught fire and a similar number did not know if their charger met Australian standards.

The research found more than half of people turned off their chargers when their battery was full, but more than a quarter admitted to leaving the charger on, which QFES Fire Safety Executive Manager Mark Halverson said posed a significant risk.

“QFES crews have attended more than 40 structure fires so far this financial year, which were caused by lithium-ion batteries,” Mr Halverson said.

“It’s important residents are aware of the risks of these fires occurring year-round.

“Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space which means fires are often intense, likely to spread rapidly and can burn for an extended period of time as they are self-sustaining.

“To reduce the risk of a fire starting, avoid leaving batteries or devices unattended while being charged and ensure that once the battery is fully charged, it is disconnected from the charger.

“You should also avoid charging devices in living spaces or near flammable materials. Most importantly, ensure your charging location doesn’t impede your evacuation route should a fire occur.”

Fire risk higher in cooler months

RACQ Insurance Chief Executive Trent Sayers also urged Queenslanders to be alert to this growing risk and the increased potential for fires during the cooler months.

“Over the past three years, RACQ Insurance has received 1,419 insurance claims for fire damage, with a large portion of claims being made during the cooler months,” Mr Sayers said.

“House fires can happen to anyone and most are caused by everyday items like cooking equipment, faulty or poorly maintained appliances and flammable materials placed too close to heat sources.

“As the temperature drops, it’s crucial to check your winter warmers, such as heaters and electric blankets, for a buildup of dust, loose or damaged cords and rust before you plug them in.

"If you’re unsure, have a qualified electrician check them out.” The research found that nearly two-thirds of Queenslanders have had their smoke alarms tested in the past six months and close to three in four in the past 12 months.

“Only working smoke alarms save lives, so check yours is operating as it should,” Mr Halverson said.

Safety advice for batteries

Warning signs of a damaged device or battery include excessive heat production, significant change in colour, battery swelling or leaking and odd noises.

If it is not on fire or smoking and displays any of these warning signs, you should, if safe to do so, disconnect the device from the power supply and move it outside away from any other combustible items. Importantly, lithium-ion battery fires are likely to emit a highly toxic vapour cloud.

If a fire occurs, people should evacuate immediately and call triple zero (000).

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