Various incidents in the media show that batteries are not as innocent as they seem. It's not just the rechargeable batteries of electric bikes or cars, but also those of small devices such as power banks, hoverboards, smartphones, laptops, etc., that can catch fire or explode during or after charging. These devices usually use a type of lithium-ion battery. Although generally safe, these can spontaneously ignite due to poor quality or various external factors (shocks, temperature...).
Fire departments are also receiving more and more reports of battery fires, due to the continued growth in the sale of (rechargeable) consumer electronics, the electrification of the automotive landscape, the storage of renewable energy, etc. Fires from such rechargeable batteries are intense and often difficult to extinguish. Images of electric cars that have to be submerged in a container full of water can now be found everywhere. Fortunately, firefighting techniques are evolving, and less invasive techniques exist to bring a battery fire under control.
Of course, prevention is better than cure.
This can be done with these 10 prevention tips for (rechargeable) batteries:
- Read the manual carefully and inform yourself about the correct and discouraged use.
- Use the original chargers supplied with the product. Do not use chargers with defects (e.g., damaged cables).
- Avoid charging via extension cords. Plug the charger directly into a wall socket.
- Charge batteries during the day when someone is at home or in the workspace. If a fire occurs, quick action can be taken.
- Ensure good placement of smoke detectors, preferably as close as possible to the charging points.
- Provide at least 1 meter of free space and do not place flammable materials around the charging device.
- Stop charging as soon as the battery is full, to avoid heat build-up.
- Do not use damaged (rechargeable) batteries. Immediately remove them to a suitable recycling point or have them picked up by your waste collector.
- Ensure that sufficient and suitable fire extinguishing agents are present at the charging location or near the area. CO2 extinguishers are preferred for electrical installations. Special types for rechargeable batteries can also be considered, but evacuation in case of a battery fire is preferred.
- Include the use of rechargeable devices in risk analyses to arrive at specific prevention measures.
