Data released recently by leading insurer Allianz reveals the high cost of fire-related claims involving lithium batteries. It’s a growing problem as gadgets like e-bikes and e-scooters become cheaper thanks to Chinese imports, plus modern tablets, smartphones, kitchen appliances, tyre pumps and many more items how have re-chargeable lithium batteries inside them.
Many businesses have phones, laptops, cameras, drones, comms systems etc which need charging daily.
In the building repair and construction sector power tools need charging overnight so that teams can get busy on-site from 8am onwards on a typical day too.
Here’s the word from Allianz on home based risks ;
The average cost of these claims is £50,000, with fires caused by leaking and damaged batteries and overcharged e-vehicles combusting at home.
Statistics from the London Fire Brigade reveal the Greater London area alone has seen 673 fires where a lithium battery or vehicle was involved since January 2023.
The largest claim received by Allianz for a fire started by a rechargeable lithium battery is for more than £420,000, after a battery-powered vacuum cleaner caught alight, causing a major fire in a property in London.
Allianz fire-safety partner and Surrey firefighter, Angela Everington, says homeowners should be wary of the number and age of these batteries they have lying around which could start fires.
She said: “Old batteries aren’t just unnecessary to keep lying around but are more prone to damage and deterioration. The older the battery, the higher the chance of leaking, sparking or igniting a fire.”
A survey of 2,000 UK adults commissioned by Allianz found that all respondents said their household contained at least one device with a lithium battery, while 74% admitted to holding onto a dead device longer than needed.
To raise awareness of the dangers, Allianz has compiled a list of some of the top lithium-ion powered items people admit to holding on to for too long:
1. Smartphones – 77%
2. Laptops – 57%
3. Digital cameras – 20%
4. Power bank – 13%
5. Electric toothbrush – 11%
A CHARGED ISSUE
With home fires caused by these batteries on the rise, Allianz and Angela are working to highlight some of the bad habits people need to be aware of.
Angela said: “Overcharging, or using incorrect wattage when charging, can damage the battery, causing it to overheat and even explode. Allianz’s research chimes with the trends we’ve witnessed when attending house fires, which are more frequently caused by lithium products.”
Caroline Johnson, Allianz personal lines claims director, said: “Fires caused by rechargeable lithium batteries can have devastating consequences, and it is important that people use good quality batteries from reputable retailers.
“Items such as mobile phones, tablets, cameras and other electronic devices are essential parts of modern living but we can all take precautionary steps to make sure we are charging, disposing and handling our devices correctly. People should look out for problems with their batteries such as wear and tear, overheating and bulging, and dispose of damaged batteries properly.
“Old tech should be recycled properly and it is also important that every house has smoke alarms fitted.”
The figures show that although most people own lithium battery-powered items, one third (34%) said they don’t know or are unsure of the risks they pose.
More than 78% of people regularly charge their battery products overnight and almost half (45%) use uncertified chargers.
While 28% said they aren’t concerned about charging items overnight and don’t consider it to be a risk, 53% say house fires are their biggest fear when it comes to their homes and possessions. Nearly three-quarters (73%) believe it would be the most devastating thing to happen to their homes over theft and storm damage.
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