Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Watch: February 2025 Edition Part 2

Lithium-ion batteries have transformed modern life, powering everything from smartphones and power tools to electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Despite their benefits, these batteries pose significant fire risks, as evidenced by numerous recent incidents worldwide. This blog examines several recent lithium-ion battery fires, explores their hazards, and emphasizes important safety measures for building and fire safety professionals.

Recent Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Summaries

E-bike battery at the centre of fatal house fire investigation

Location: Guildford, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Summary:A fatal residential fire in Guildford, Sydney, was caused by a lithium-ion battery for an e-bike, which overheated due to being charged by an incompatible charger. The fire occurred in a single-family home with no functioning smoke alarms. Firefighters responding to multiple emergency calls found a bedroom fully involved, with one occupant trapped inside. The individual was removed but tragically died from injuries sustained in the fire. Five other residents escaped, with one hospitalized due to smoke inhalation. The home suffered severe fire and smoke damage. This incident highlights the critical importance of using dedicated chargers for lithium-ion batteries and ensuring homes have operational smoke alarms.

Link to original article: Fire and Rescue NSW

$679K In Damages Reported After Lithium-Ion Battery Fire At Aldie Home

Location: Aldie, Virginia, United States

Summary:A fire caused by a lithium-ion battery in a tool stored in the garage led to nearly $679,000 in damages to a single-family home in Aldie, Virginia. The fire ignited early in the morning, spreading quickly to the garage, attic, and exterior, and was controlled by firefighters within approximately 20 minutes. Smoke alarms enabled the safe evacuation of four residents, and no injuries were reported. This incident underscores the risks posed by lithium-ion batteries in common household tools and reinforces the importance of functioning smoke alarms and proper battery handling.

Link to original article: Aldie Daily Voice

Firefighters tackle 24-hour blaze at battery energy storage site

Location: South Essex, England, United Kingdom

Summary:A lithium-ion battery fire at an under-construction battery energy storage facility in South Essex took firefighters more than 24 hours to control. The fire originated in a containerized battery unit due to a fault within one of the battery cells. Fire safety measures, including appropriate spacing of battery units and an adequate local fire water supply, effectively limited the spread. No injuries or evacuations were reported, but the incident emphasizes the challenges and risks associated with large-scale lithium-ion battery storage sites.

Link to original article: Echo-News

Camden residents warned to stay inside while fire burns at scrap yard

Location: Camden, New Jersey, United States

Summary:A substantial fire erupted at the EMR metals recycling facility in Camden, New Jersey, believed to be caused by a lithium-ion battery incorrectly delivered and concealed within scrap metal. The fire generated significant smoke, raising air quality concerns and prompting officials to advise residents to remain indoors. Due to limited water access and adverse wind conditions, firefighters faced significant challenges controlling the blaze, which lasted overnight. There were no reported injuries; however, extensive property damage occurred. The event triggered calls for improved regulation and oversight of lithium-ion battery disposal practices.

Link to original article: Courier-Post

Charleston home damaged in fire; generic lithium-ion battery may be to blame

Location: Charleston, South Carolina, United States

Summary:An early-morning fire damaged a residential home in Charleston, suspected to have been caused by a generic lithium-ion battery used as a replacement for a power tool battery. The fire originated in a garage cabinet where the battery was charging. Residents evacuated safely after waking to unusual noises, and firefighters contained the fire mainly to the garage area. No injuries occurred. This case highlights the dangers associated with using off-brand lithium-ion batteries and the importance of proper battery handling and charging practices.

Link to original article: Live5 News

Columbia Fire Department responds to house fire in north Columbia

Location: Columbia, Missouri, United States

Summary:A house fire in north Columbia, Missouri, was caused by a lithium-ion battery improperly disposed of in household trash. The fire started on the exterior of the home and spread into the attic area above the garage. Fire crews quickly controlled the blaze within ten minutes, preventing further damage. No injuries were reported, as all residents were safely outside upon firefighters' arrival. The incident highlights the importance of properly disposing of lithium-ion batteries and ensuring they are not placed with general waste or recycling.

Link to original article: ABC17 News

E-bike battery sparks fire in Salt Lake City

Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, United States

Summary:An apartment fire in a Salt Lake City high-rise was caused by a spontaneously ignited lithium-ion e-bike battery. Heavy smoke filled the building's stairwell, prompting an evacuation. Four individuals were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. Fire officials emphasized that lithium-ion battery fires produce rapid heat and growth, posing significant dangers. The incident highlights the hazards of improper charging practices, including using knock-off chargers or overcharging batteries.

Link to original article: KSL News Radio

Fire at Covington battery recycler sparks concerns among mayor, city leaders after 14 incidents

Location: Covington, Georgia, United States

Summary:A fire involving a truck trailer loaded with used lithium-ion batteries from electric vehicles occurred at a battery recycling facility in Covington, Georgia. The incident was the 14th at the site since it opened in March 2023, causing significant concern among city leaders due to the potential hazard it poses to the community. While firefighters successfully prevented the blaze from spreading to an adjacent warehouse filled with batteries, officials noted that a larger fire would require major evacuations and road closures. The recycling facility is working closely with local officials to improve safety practices.

Link to original article: WSB-TV Channel 2 Atlanta

Fire at Peterhead household recycling centre

Location: Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom

Summary:A fire at the household recycling centre in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, was caused by batteries left inside recycled electrical equipment. The blaze damaged a container designated for recycling electrical items. Firefighters quickly controlled the fire, allowing the center to reopen the same day. Local authorities urged residents to remove batteries before recycling electrical items, highlighting the risks to staff, equipment, and the environment from improper disposal.

Link to original article: Aberdeenshire Council

Fire department issues safety warning after batteries spark blaze

Location: Sarnia, Ontario, Canada

Summary:A lithium-ion battery caused a balcony fire at an apartment building on Euphemia Street in Sarnia, Ontario. The fire was quickly contained, resulting in approximately $5,000 in damage without any reported injuries. Fire officials warned residents about the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, advising proper use, charging practices, and immediate disposal if the battery shows signs of damage. Another recent local fire was similarly attributed to lithium-ion batteries, underscoring the need for increased public awareness about battery safety.

Link to original article: Sarnia News Today

Firefighters Quickly Extinguish Shed Fire That Spreads to House in Lexington Park, No Injuries Reported

Location: Lexington Park, Maryland, United States

Summary:A fire initiated by lithium-ion batteries stored in a backyard shed rapidly spread to a two-story residence in Lexington Park, Maryland. Firefighters quickly responded and controlled the fire within 15 minutes, successfully preventing extensive damage to the home. The batteries were reportedly not in use or charging at the time of ignition. No injuries were reported; all occupants and pets were safely evacuated. Fire officials ordered the affected batteries to be submerged in water and isolated until proper disposal could be coordinated, highlighting the unique hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries even when not actively in use.

Link to original article: Southern Maryland News Net

Flat blaze ‘sparked by battery’

Location: Highbury, Islington, London, United Kingdom

Summary:A residential flat fire in Highbury, London, was caused by the failure of lithium-ion batteries in an electronic device. The fire started in a basement flat and spread to the upper floor, causing significant damage. Approximately 25 firefighters managed to control the blaze without reported injuries. Fire authorities emphasized the extreme hazards associated with lithium-ion battery fires, describing them as producing intense heat, jets of flame, and toxic vapor clouds.

Link to original article: Islington Tribune

Flat fire - Thornton Heath

Location: Thornton Heath, Croydon, London, United Kingdom

Summary:A fire in Thornton Heath, London, severely damaged a first-floor flat and the building's roof. The blaze was caused by an e-bike lithium-ion battery that failed while charging. Approximately 70 firefighters responded to the incident, successfully rescuing one occupant using breathing apparatus; two other residents evacuated prior to their arrival. Authorities advised the public on safe lithium-ion battery charging practices, noting an increasing frequency of similar incidents in London.

Link to original article: London Fire Brigade

Greater Alarm Fire Destroys Lithium-Ion Battery Facility in NE Spokane

Location: Spokane, Washington, United States

Summary:A severe fire destroyed the MaxAmps Lithium Batteries manufacturing facility in Spokane, Washington. Firefighters faced intense flames due to the nature of lithium-ion battery production at the facility, which assembled battery cells primarily for drones. An area evacuation was implemented as a precaution against toxic smoke, though monitoring indicated no significant air quality concerns. A natural gas leak exacerbated the fire but was controlled by utility crews. No injuries occurred, though residents of a nearby home were temporarily displaced due to smoke exposure risks. Officials noted the ongoing danger of battery reignition and planned overnight monitoring.

Link to original article: City of Spokane

Mobile phone explodes while charging; house gutted in fire

Location: Karkala, Karnataka, India

Summary:A mobile phone explosion during charging caused a devastating fire that completely gutted a two-story home in Karkala, India. The phone, placed on a couch, burst into flames around 4:00 AM, rapidly engulfing the entire house. Firefighters battled the blaze for over two and a half hours before bringing it under control. The homeowner sustained minor injuries, and significant financial losses were reported. The incident illustrates the hazards associated with charging lithium-ion batteries unattended, especially near combustible materials.

Link to original article: Daijiworld

Lithium-ion battery caused Wyoming fire

Location: Wyoming, Ontario, Canada

Summary:A lithium-ion battery from a power tool caused a fire in a historic commercial building undergoing renovation in Wyoming, Ontario. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire, limiting the damage to one unit within the structure. No occupants were present, and there were no injuries reported. The incident underscores the hazards of lithium-ion batteries, particularly the risk of fires from physical damage and subsequent thermal runaway.

Link to original article: The Independent

Lithium-ion battery fire results in man being airlifted to hospital – Umina

Location: Umina, New South Wales, Australia

Summary:A lithium-ion battery explosion led to a serious residential fire at a townhouse in Umina, Australia. Firefighters found heavy smoke upon arrival and controlled the blaze within 30 minutes. Three individuals required medical attention, including one man who suffered severe burns and was airlifted to the hospital. Fire and Rescue NSW highlighted the explosive potential and toxicity of lithium-ion battery fires, emphasizing preventive measures and correct battery handling practices.

Link to original article: Fire and Rescue NSW

Lithium-ion battery sparks dangerous fire in Outagamie County waste management center

Location: Appleton, Wisconsin, United States

Summary:A lithium-ion battery mistakenly disposed of with paper recycling caused a dangerous fire at the Outagamie County waste management center in Appleton, Wisconsin. The battery ignited inside a paper baler, resulting in an intense fire that destroyed the device and posed a serious threat to workers and facility equipment. Officials reinforced warnings against improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries due to their unpredictability and potential for rapid fire spread.

Link to original article: WFRV

Lithium-ion cell phone battery catches fire

Location: Bemidji, Minnesota, United States

Summary:A lithium-ion battery in a cell phone caught fire spontaneously in Bemidji, Minnesota, causing minor injury and property damage. The battery began hissing and rapidly burned, requiring two fire extinguishers to extinguish. Though damage was limited due to prompt response, firefighters emphasized that lithium-ion battery fires can escalate quickly and offered critical safety guidance on battery charging and disposal practices.

Link to original article: Valley News Live

Officials discuss dangers of rechargeable batteries after waste station fire

Location: Seminole County, Florida, United States

Summary:A fire occurred at the Central Transfer Station in Seminole County, Florida, due to improperly disposed lithium-ion batteries igniting inside a waste trailer. Fire crews promptly controlled the blaze, resulting in no reported injuries. Seminole County officials issued a community alert emphasizing proper disposal methods for lithium-ion and rechargeable batteries to prevent similar incidents. The facility previously experienced similar fires, highlighting ongoing risks associated with battery disposal.

Link to original article: Yahoo News

Rising Fire Risks Highlight Safety Concerns Over Personal Mobility Batteries

Location: Changwon, South Korea

Summary:A fatal house fire in Changwon, South Korea, claimed the life of a Vietnamese international student due to a lithium-ion battery charger for an electric bicycle igniting near the home's entrance. The victim attempted to escape but succumbed to smoke inhalation. Authorities highlighted rising incidents involving lithium-ion batteries from personal mobility devices (PMDs) like e-bikes and scooters, noting increased fatalities and significant property damage. Fire safety experts emphasized preventive measures, such as using battery management systems and avoiding storing PMDs near exits.

Link to original article: Be Korea-savvy

Smoke from burning power bank fills Batik Air plane cabin minutes before landing in Bangkok

Location: Near Don Mueang International Airport, Bangkok, Thailand

Summary:A lithium-ion power bank caught fire onboard a Batik Air flight from Johor Bahru, Malaysia, causing smoke to fill the aircraft cabin shortly before landing in Bangkok. Flight attendants quickly contained the incident using fire extinguishers, relocating affected passengers and securing the smoking device. No injuries occurred, and emergency services were waiting upon landing as a precaution. This incident heightened international concerns regarding lithium-ion batteries in passenger aircraft cabins.

Link to original article: The Straits Times

Texas garbage truck dumps trash in neighborhood after seeing sparks

Location: Anna, Texas, United States

Summary:A garbage truck driver in Anna, Texas, dumped a load of household waste onto a residential street after lithium-ion batteries improperly disposed of in the trash ignited inside the truck. This quick action prevented a larger disaster, containing the fire without injuries or significant damage. City officials used the incident to remind residents of the dangers of improper lithium-ion battery disposal, advising the use of designated hazardous waste recycling facilities to avoid fires in collection trucks and waste management facilities.

Link to original article: NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

TN woman injured in e-scooter battery explosion dies

Location: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India

Summary:A woman in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India, died after suffering severe burn injuries from an electric scooter battery explosion. The incident occurred on a poultry and pig farm where the batteries were charged overnight. Upon recharging one battery the following morning, it exploded, critically injuring the woman, who succumbed to her injuries a week later at the hospital. Authorities are investigating the precise circumstances, emphasizing concerns regarding the dangers associated with charging lithium-ion batteries unattended or improperly.

Link to original article: The Times of India

Warning to e-bike users after one bursts into flames in Widnes garden

Location: Widnes, Cheshire, United Kingdom

Summary:An e-bike spontaneously caught fire in a residential garden in Widnes, UK, prompting a fire crew to quickly respond and extinguish the blaze. No injuries or extensive damage were reported, but authorities issued a warning regarding the rising risks associated with e-bike and scooter lithium-ion battery fires. Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service advised safe charging and storage practices, highlighting that battery fires can rapidly escalate and pose significant safety risks.

Link to original article: Runcorn and Widnes World

West Sechelt house fire likely caused by lithium-ion battery

Location: West Sechelt, British Columbia, Canada

Summary:A devastating fire in West Sechelt, Canada, severely damaged the home of a local volunteer firefighter and kindergarten teacher, along with their three children. The fire was caused by an overheating lithium-ion battery, which had been moved outside after initially overheating indoors. Despite this precaution, the battery ignited, causing extensive damage to the home. Thanks to functioning smoke alarms, the family and pets evacuated safely. Authorities emphasized the importance of safe battery handling, certified products, and proper charging locations to prevent similar incidents. The community has rallied support for the family through fundraising efforts.

Link to original article: Coast Reporter

Understanding Lithium-Ion Battery Hazards

Lithium-ion battery fires often result from thermal runaway, where damaged or improperly charged batteries rapidly overheat and ignite. These fires produce intense heat, toxic gases, and can reignite even after initial extinguishment. Common causes include using incompatible or damaged chargers, improper disposal, physical battery damage, and inadequate fire safety measures.

Essential Safety Measures

To mitigate lithium-ion battery risks:

• Use of manufacturer-approved chargers and batteries

• Proper disposal methods, avoiding general trash or recycling

• Installation and maintenance of smoke alarms and sprinkler systems

• Adequate fire separation in battery storage and charging areas

• Public education on safe battery handling practices

As lithium-ion battery usage grows, fire risks remain a significant safety challenge. Continued vigilance, proper safety practices, and community education are essential to preventing these dangerous incidents.

Stay informed and proactive to protect communities from the evolving risks associated with lithium-ion battery technology.

References

Aberdeenshire Council. (2025, March). Fire at Peterhead household recycling centre. Aberdeenshire Council. https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/news/2025/mar/fire-at-peterhead-household-recycling-centre

ABC17 News. (2025, February 17). Columbia Fire Department responds to house fire in north Columbia. ABC17 News. https://abc17news.com/news/top-stories/2025/02/17/columbia-fire-department-responds-to-residential-structure-fire-in-north-columbia/

Be Korea-savvy. (2025, February 21). Rising fire risks highlight safety concerns over personal mobility batteries. Be Korea-savvy. http://koreabizwire.com/rising-fire-risks-highlight-safety-concerns-over-personal-mobility-batteries/307516

City of Spokane. (2025, February 26). Greater alarm fire destroys lithium-ion battery facility in NE Spokane. City of Spokane. https://my.spokanecity.org/fire/news/2025/02/26/greater-alarm-fire-destroys-lithium-ion-battery-facility-in-ne-spokane

Coast Reporter. (2025, February 27). West Sechelt house fire likely caused by lithium-ion battery. Coast Reporter. https://www.coastreporter.net/sechelt-news/community-rallies-for-west-sechelt-family-who-lost-home-to-fire-10284905

Courier-Post. (2025, February 21). Camden residents warned to stay inside while fire burns at scrap yard. Courier-Post. https://www.courierpostonline.com/story/news/local/south-jersey/2025/02/21/emr-camden-scrap-yard-fire/79495751007/

Daijiworld. (2025, February 21). Mobile phone explodes while charging; house gutted in fire. Daijiworld. https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1272251

Fire and Rescue NSW. (2025, February 19). E-bike battery at the centre of fatal house fire investigation. Fire and Rescue NSW. https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/incident.php?record=recsz4vFE94kZXbTf

Fire and Rescue NSW. (2025, February 21). Lithium-ion battery fire results in man being airlifted to hospital – Umina. Fire and Rescue NSW. https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/incident.php?record=recsxosOOb1WKbBlq

Islington Tribune. (2025, February). Flat blaze ‘sparked by battery’. Islington Tribune. https://www.islingtontribune.co.uk/article/flat-blaze-sparked-by-battery

KSL News Radio. (2025, February). E-bike battery sparks fire in Salt Lake City. KSL News Radio. https://kslnewsradio.com/utah/e-bike-battery-fire/2187614

London Fire Brigade. (2025, February). Flat fire - Thornton Heath. London Fire Brigade. https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/incidents/2025/february/flat-fire-thornton-heath/

NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth. (2025, February 21). Texas garbage truck dumps trash in neighborhood after seeing sparks. NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth. https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/trash-truck-fire-anna/3775628/

Runcorn and Widnes World. (2025, February 18). Warning to e-bike users after one bursts into flames in Widnes garden. Runcorn and Widnes World. https://www.runcornandwidnesworld.co.uk/news/24940514.warning-e-bike-users-one-bursts-flames-widnes-garden/

Sarnia News Today. (2025, February 27). Fire department issues safety warning after batteries spark blaze. Sarnia News Today. https://sarnianewstoday.ca/sarnia/news/2025/02/27/fire-department-issues-safety-warning-after-batteries-spark-blaze

Seminole County Officials. (2025, February 22). Officials discuss dangers of rechargeable batteries after waste station fire. Yahoo News. https://www.yahoo.com/news/officials-discuss-dangers-rechargeable-batteries-162621912.html

Southern Maryland News Net. (2025, February). Firefighters quickly extinguish shed fire that spreads to house in Lexington Park, no injuries reported. Southern Maryland News Net. https://smnewsnet.com/archives/544364/firefighters-quickly-extinguish-shed-fire-that-spreads-to-house-in-lexington-park-no-injuries-reported/

The Independent. (2025, February 24). Lithium-ion battery caused Wyoming fire. The Independent. https://petrolialambtonindependent.ca/2025/02/24/lithium-ion-battery-caused-wyoming-fire/

The Straits Times. (2025, March 2). Smoke from burning power bank fills Batik Air plane cabin minutes before landing in Bangkok. The Straits Times. https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/smoke-from-burning-power-bank-fills-cabin-of-batik-air-plane-minutes-before-landing-in-bangkok

The Times of India. (2025, February 21). TN woman injured in e-scooter battery explosion dies. The Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tn-woman-injured-in-e-scooter-battery-explosion-dies/articleshow/118457270.cms

Valley News Live. (2025, February 21). Lithium-ion cell phone battery catches fire. Valley News Live. https://www.valleynewslive.com/2025/02/21/lithium-ion-cell-phone-battery-catches-fire/

WFRV. (2025, February). Lithium-ion battery sparks dangerous fire in Outagamie County waste management center. WFRV. https://www.wearegreenbay.com/news/local-news/lithium-ion-battery-sparks-dangerous-fire-in-outagamie-county-waste-management-center/

WSB-TV Channel 2 Atlanta. (2025, February). Fire at Covington battery recycler sparks concerns among mayor, city leaders after 14 incidents. WSB-TV Channel 2 Atlanta. https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/newton-county/fire-covington-battery-recycler-sparks-concerns-among-mayor-city-leaders-after-14-incidents/K7IAPEDIBNBLNLHJSNO4XWDSEU

Live5 News. (2025, February 24). Charleston home damaged in fire; generic lithium-ion battery may be to blame. Live5 News. https://www.live5news.com/2025/02/24/charleston-home-damaged-fire-generic-lithium-ion-battery-may-be-blame/

Aldie Daily Voice. (2025, February). $679K in damages reported after lithium-ion battery fire at Aldie home. Aldie Daily Voice. https://dailyvoice.com/va/aldie/679k-in-damages-reported-after-lithium-ion-battery-fire-at-aldie-home-officials-say/

Echo News. (2025, February 27). East Tilbury battery storage site fire under control. Echo News. https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/24952900.east-tilbury-battery-storage-site-fire-control/