As Christmas lights slowly switch on, shopping centre traffic starts to build and the sound of Mariah Carey follows you around, shoppers are being warned against toys and gifts with lithium-ion batteries after a difficult year of incidents. 

This year has seen a sharp increase in fires related to lithium-ion batteries, with Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) reporting 180 incidents since January 2021, compared with just over 16 in 2021. 

The fires have often been found in small portable devices from toys and laptops to e-bikes and e-scooters. 

Minister for Emergency Services Steph Cooke said the significant number of fires should serve as a warning for Christmas shoppers. 

“Most of these fires occur when lithium-ion batteries are in the process of charging and overheat, causing an explosion of flames in living rooms or garages,” MsCooke said. 

“Just a few weeks ago an e-bike battery caught fire and almost burnt down a family home in Manly. A brick wall was the only barrier that prevented flames spreading from the garage to the remainder of the house,” she said. 

It’s recommended that any items with lithium-ion batteries be monitored closely when charging, and not charged for extended periods of time. 

The remains of an e-bike after the re-chargeable battery ignited. SOURCE: FRNSW

FRNSW Acting Deputy Commissioner Trent Curtin said both rechargeable and disposable batteries should be treated with caution.

“When lithium-ion batteries fail, they are prone to ‘thermal runaway’, which sees them build up intense heat until they violently burst, causing toxic, flammable and explosive gases and flames that are extremely difficult to extinguish,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Curtin said. 

"Firefighters often have to use copious amounts of water to ensure that they are extinguished and adequately cooled to prevent re-ignition,” he said.

“While the quality of the Lithium-ion battery can pose a risk, the main risk is caused by over-charging or trying to charge a damaged battery, which could cause it to overheat and ignite.”

 “If you are shopping for toys, e-bikes, e-scooters, laptops or power tools that are powered by Lithium-ion batteries this Christmas, always ensure you’re purchasing a reputable brand from a reputable retailer.” 

Tips to minimise fire risks include:

• Don’t leave batteries to be charged overnight or unattended
• Charge batteries away from beds, sofas and other highly flammable and insulating materials 
• Always use compliant and approved charging equipment
• Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing the Lithium-ion battery cells
• Store batteries in a cool, dry area away from combustible materials
• Store large devices like e-bikes outside of bedrooms and living spaces
• Don’t charge batteries that show signs of damage
• Properly dispose of used lithium-ion batteries

The NSW Department of Fair Trading also advises caution when buying any toys which may contain choking hazards such as magnets, coin and button batteries, or that add water risks.