West Midlands Fire Service warns of lithium-ion battery fires as Black Friday approaches
West Midlands Fire Service warns that lithium-ion batteries in everyday devices can ignite without warning, urging safer charging, handling, and disposal during Black Friday and the holidays.
As shoppers rush to grab gifts during Black Friday and the festive season, the West Midlands Fire Service is warning about the hidden dangers of lithium-ion batteries. These compact power packs power many common devices and can pose serious fire risks if handled poorly.
Why lithium-ion batteries matter
Lithium-ion batteries are found in a wide range of items, from electric bikes and scooters to smartphones, laptops and vaping devices. They can start a fire with little or no warning, spread quickly, burn at extreme temperatures, and release toxic fumes that are hard to breathe in a home.
Tragic reminders and lessons
Last year in Coventry, a house fire started by a battery in a converted e-bike claimed the lives of Karlo Bogdan, Natasha Johnson-Mall, and their two dogs. In the wake of the tragedy, families spoke out to warn others, especially about converted e-bikes.
Ms Bogdan’s sister, Ehsia Johnson-Mall, described the loss as something the world cannot replace and warned that by the time a fault is noticed, it may be too late to escape.
In 2021, after a hoverboard battery exploded at a bedbound woman’s home in Smethwick, her son shared the security footage to raise public awareness through WMFS.
A new safety drive
With Black Friday and the holiday season underway, WMFS launched a safety campaign. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Steve Ball expressed condolences to the families affected and urged extra caution when buying gifts and charging devices with lithium-ion batteries.
Rising incidents across the region and country
The service reports a noticeable rise in lithium-ion battery incidents, with 40 fires in 2023, 69 in 2024, and 65 by 31 October this year. Crews recorded six fires involving e-bikes and batteries in 2023, 13 in 2024, and 16 by 31 October this year. National data echo these trends, indicating fire brigades now tackle roughly three lithium-ion battery fires a day, with a 93% increase from 2022 to 2024.
Practical safety tips
WMFS stresses that most rechargeable devices contain lithium-ion batteries and that a failing battery, though uncommon, can happen even in well-maintained products. Daily usage means many people may be at risk unless they follow careful charging and storage practices.
- Buy from reputable retailers to ensure product safety and genuine batteries.
- Avoid overnight charging; unplug devices once fully charged.
- Dispose of damaged or swollen batteries through proper recycling channels.
- Be alert for heat, swelling, leaks, or odd smells and stop using the device if these occur.
- Follow guidance published by WMFS and store devices away from flammable materials.
WMFS has published guidance on its website to help households reduce the risk of battery fires.
Key takeaways
- Lithium-ion batteries can ignite suddenly and burn at very high temperatures.
- Incidents involving these batteries are rising across the region and the country.
- Safe charging, handling, and disposal practices are essential, especially during gift-buying seasons.
Expert view
Safety expert Dr. Lena Hartley notes that battery failures can occur without warning, even in well-kept devices. Stay vigilant and unplug when you notice signs of trouble.
Summary
As Black Friday and the holidays drive more purchases, WMFS urges careful handling of lithium-ion batteries. The rising incident trend underscores the need for safe charging, storage, and disposal to protect homes and families during the shopping season.
Key insight: Lithium-ion batteries can ignite with little warning and burn at extreme temperatures, making safe charging and storage essential during the holiday shopping season. Source: BBC News
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