The Hidden Danger: Why Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Are Rising

In recent years, the way we power our lives has changed dramatically. From the mobile phone in your pocket to the electric bike you use to commute, lithium-ion batteries have become essential. However, this convenience comes with a growing risk. According to new data from the global business insurer QBE, fire brigades across the UK are now responding to a lithium-ion battery fire every five hours. This represents a significant increase, with the number of such fires rising by 147% over the past three years.

These batteries are popular because they can store a large amount of energy in a small, lightweight package. However, when they are damaged, poorly made, or charged incorrectly, they can experience a dangerous process known as 'thermal runaway.' This is a chain reaction where the temperature inside the battery rises uncontrollably. As the battery gets hotter, it releases toxic gas at high pressure, which can create a flame similar to a blowtorch and lead to an explosion. Adrian Simmonds, a risk manager at QBE Insurance, explained that these fires are very different from ordinary ones. He noted that they take much longer to put out and can require up to 10 times more water to control than a standard fire.

Electric bikes and e-scooters are a major part of this problem. QBE researchers found that fires involving these vehicles made up nearly one-third of all lithium-ion battery incidents in 2025. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has been particularly busy, tackling hundreds of ebike fires in the capital alone. Spencer Sutcliff, the LFB’s deputy commissioner for prevention, stated that the brigade remains extremely concerned about the situation. He pointed out that many of these fires involve 'retrofitted' or converted bikes—bikes that have been changed from their original design—which appear to be much more dangerous than certified, factory-made models.

Beyond the danger to homes, these batteries are causing problems in our waste systems. Many people do not know how to get rid of old batteries, so they throw them into regular trash bins. When these batteries end up in bin lorries or recycling centers, they can be crushed or punctured, leading to massive fires. These incidents are not only dangerous for workers but also very expensive. The cost of these waste-related fires is now estimated at more than £1 billion every year. The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has expressed deep concern, noting that the current situation reflects a gap between the speed at which these products have entered our homes and the safety regulations meant to protect us.

So, what can be done to stay safe? Experts suggest that public awareness is the most important tool we have. Adrian Simmonds from QBE recommends that people only use certified batteries and chargers from trusted brands. He also advises against charging devices overnight or in places that block your escape routes during a fire. If a battery is damaged or shows signs of swelling, it should be treated as a serious hazard and disposed of properly at a designated recycling point, rather than in a household bin.

Looking ahead, there is a clear call for stricter government rules. The London Fire Brigade suggests that better regulation could improve product safety and stop the sale of faulty or counterfeit items on online marketplaces. As the number of electric vehicles on the road continues to grow, fire services are preparing for more challenges. While these batteries are a vital part of our modern, greener future, the data shows that we must treat them with much more caution. By following simple safety steps and demanding better quality products, we can help reduce the risk of these dangerous fires in our communities.