Lithium-ion batteries are a ubiquitous component in modern electronics, powering everything from smartphones to laptops. However, their increasing popularity has led to a rise in lithium-ion battery fires in New Zealand homes. According to the Australiantimes.co.uk article, "Warning of rise in lithium-ion battery fires in New Zealand homes" (https://www.australiantimes.co.uk/news/warning-of-rise-in-lithium-ion-battery-fires-in-new-zealand-homes/), this trend is not new, but its frequency and severity have increased significantly over the past decade.
Causes of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
Lithium-ion batteries are prone to thermal runaway, a condition where they rapidly heat up due to internal shorts or other defects. When this happens, the battery can burst into flames, causing fires that can spread quickly.
Safety Precautions
To minimize the risk of lithium-ion battery fires in your home, follow these safety precautions:
- Regularly inspect and maintain your devices to prevent overheating and internal defects.
- Keep lithium-ion batteries away from children, pets, and flammable materials.
- Use protective covering or packaging when transporting or storing lithium-ion batteries.