Battery safety

Batteries are a large part of our everyday life

In fact, you’re probably reading this on a device that’s powered by a battery right now.

Batteries are usually safe during normal use, but they can be a significant fire risk when overcharged, submerged in water or damaged.  

Batteries should also be kept well out of the reach of children, as they can cause significant internal damage when swallowed. Always make sure they are secured safely in devices and never leave batteries lying around. If you suspect someone has swallowed a battery, call 999 immediately. 

Disposing of batteries safely

Batteries need to be disposed of correctly, as they are the main cause of waste fires. Once you’re ready to dispose of a battery or a device containing batteries (such as a vape), you should always take them to a proper battery recycling service. Your local recycling centre should have one.

Batteries that have been thrown into general waste or recycling bins can cause fires that spread quickly and are hard to extinguish, even if they no longer work. 

You should remove batteries from devices if possible and dispose of them separately at a designated site. 

Using and charging batteries safely

Batteries that are damaged or used and charged incorrectly can also be a fire risk, so here are some ways to make sure you’re using your devices safely: 

• Always use a charger supplied with the device or recommended by the manufacturer. Look for the CE mark indicating chargers comply with European Safety standards. 

• Never keep loose e-cigarette batteries in your pocket, particularly next to keys or coins—they are more likely to cause a fire. 

• Charge your device on a flat, solid, stable surface like a kitchen worktop. Never leave your mobile phone charging under your pillow. 

• Only charge a device for the recommended charging time, and don’t leave it unattended—e.g., overnight while you’re asleep or if you go out. 

• Keep devices away from flammable materials when charging. 

• Never charge lithium batteries on your fire escape route (for example near any doors or walkways). If possible, charge and store them away from your living areas. 

• Avoid storing, using, or charging batteries at high or low temperatures. 

• If a device has not been used for quite some time, be extra careful and supervise when charging it—lithium batteries don’t like being discharged to a very low voltage. 

• Protect batteries against being damaged – such as being crushed, punctured, or immersed in water. Do not use a battery or device if it looks physically damaged. 

• Always read the safety instructions that come with your device. 

• Ensure you have working smoke alarms. Read more about testing smoke alarms here. 

• Avoid storing or charging e-bikes and e-scooters on escape routes or communal areas of a multi-occupied building such as flats or apartments. If there’s a fire, it can affect people’s ability to escape. 

Read more about battery and electrical safety on the Leicestershire Fire Service website.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.

• w: Leicestershire Fire Service - Battery and electrical safety