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  • Writer's pictureTim Spears
    • Aug 9
    • 6 min read

End of July 2024 Fire Incidents Highlight Lithium-Ion Battery Risks and Safety Measures



At the end of July 2024, several reported incidents involving lithium-ion batteries occurred around the world, highlighting the risks these batteries pose. From house fires to business closures, these incidents underscore the critical need for effective fire prevention measures and community risk reduction strategies. Here, we summarize these reported events and explore the hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries, emphasizing the importance of fire safety and prevention.


Recent Incidents Involving Lithium-Ion Batteries


Family's Lucky 'Vape Fire' Escape in Coventry, UK


Summary: On July 23, 2024, a fire broke out in a mid-terraced house due to a charging vape's lithium-ion battery. The fire was contained to a bedroom but caused heavy smoke damage, necessitating the family's rehousing. The West Midlands Fire Service quickly extinguished the blaze.


Link: West Midlands Fire Service. (2024, July 23). Family's lucky 'vape fire' escape. Retrieved from https://www.wmfs.net/incidents/familys-lucky-vape-fire-escape/


Batteries Suspected in Fire at Yuma Business, Arizona


Summary: A fire broke out at a furniture store in Yuma, Arizona, on July 23, 2024, due to suspected lithium-ion batteries. The store's sprinkler system activated, preventing extensive damage and ensuring no injuries.


Link: Yuma Sun Staff Report. (2024, July 23). Batteries suspected in fire at Yuma business. Retrieved from https://www.ivpressonline.com/featured/batteries-suspected-in-fire-at-yuma-business/article_7c41dd3e-4860-11ef-b614-0bd0da37b655.html


Fire at a Recycling Centre in Morden, London


Summary: On July 20, 2024, a fire believed to involve lithium-ion batteries caused extensive damage to a recycling center in Morden, London. The London Fire Brigade managed to control the fire without any reported injuries.


Link: London Fire Brigade. (2024, July 20). Fire at a recycling centre - Morden. Retrieved from https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/incidents/2024/july/fire-at-a-recycling-centre-morden-20-07-24/


Cleaning Robot Fire in Singapore General Hospital Ward


Summary: A cleaning robot's lithium-ion battery caught fire in a ward at Singapore General Hospital, leading to the evacuation of patients. Prompt action by hospital staff and firefighters ensured no injuries occurred.



Scrap Metal Yard Fire in Bellingham, London


Summary: A fire broke out in a scrap metal yard in Bellingham, London, involving lithium-ion batteries. The London Fire Brigade controlled the fire without any injuries.


Link: London Fire Brigade. (2024). Scrap metal yard fire - Bellingham. Retrieved from https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/incidents/2024/july/scrap-metal-yard-fire-bellingham-20-07-24/


Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Blamed for Closure of Newburgh Tailor Shop, New York


Summary: On July 25, 2024, a fire caused by a lithium-ion battery above a tailor shop in Newburgh, New York, activated the building's sprinkler system, causing significant water damage but preventing further spread.


Link: Nandy, B. (2024, July 26). Lithium-ion battery fire blamed for closure of Newburgh tailor shop. News 12. Retrieved from https://westchester.news12.com/lithium-ion-battery-fire-blamed-for-closure-of-newburgh-tailor-shop


Tractor-Trailer Containing Batteries on Fire in Spartanburg, South Carolina


Summary: A fire involving a tractor-trailer containing batteries broke out at a recycling center in Spartanburg, South Carolina, on July 26, 2024. The fire was controlled using traditional firefighting methods.


Link: Moore, S. (2024, July 26). Tractor-trailer containing batteries catches fire in Spartanburg. WYFF 4. Retrieved from https://www.wyff4.com/article/tractor-trailer-containing-lithium-ion-batteries-on-fire-in-upstate/61711346


Family of 3 Displaced After Overnight Structure Fire in Tanglewood, Texas


Summary: On July 24, 2024, a fire in Tanglewood, Texas, suspected to be caused by a lithium-ion battery, displaced a family of three. The College Station Fire Department contained the fire, but the house suffered extensive damage.


Link: Qawee, M. (2024, July 24). Family of 3 displaced after overnight structure fire in Tanglewood. KBTX. Retrieved from https://www.nbc-2.com/article/family-3-displaced-after-overnight-structure-fire-tanglewood/61703653


One Hurt After Fire Breaks Out in Storage Room of Bethesda Apartment, Maryland


Summary: A lithium-ion battery caused a fire in the storage room of a Bethesda apartment complex on July 25, 2024, resulting in one minor injury. The quick response by the fire department prevented the fire from spreading.



Warning Issued as E-Bike Starts House Fire in Nuneaton, UK


Summary: On July 29, 2024, an e-bike's lithium-ion battery caused a house fire in Nuneaton, UK. The Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service emphasized the dangers of such batteries and advised the public to look out for warning signs.


Link: Cullinane, A. (2024, July 29). Warning issued as e-bike starts house fire in Nuneaton. BBC News. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c72v4mv2rpdo


E-Bike Battery Fire in West Hampstead, London


Summary: A fire in West Hampstead, London, caused by an e-bike battery on July 26, 2024, resulted in significant smoke damage. The London Fire Brigade quickly extinguished the fire.


Link: London Fire Brigade. (2024, July 26). E-bike battery fire - West Hampstead. London Fire Brigade. Retrieved from https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/incidents/2024/july/e-bike-battery-fire-west-hampstead/


House Fire Caused by Lithium-Ion Battery in Palmetto, Florida


Summary: On July 25, 2024, a house fire in Palmetto, Florida, was caused by a lithium-ion battery. The Palmetto Fire Department contained the fire, but the home was significantly damaged.


Link: Wells, R. (2024, July 25). Officials: Palmetto house fire caused by lithium-ion battery. ABC Action News. Retrieved from https://www.mysuncoast.com/2024/07/29/officials-palmetto-house-fire-caused-by-lithium-ion-battery/


Structure Fire at Bath Volunteer Fire Department, New York


Summary: On July 28, 2024, a structure fire at the Bath Volunteer Fire Department in New York, caused by a lithium-ion battery, resulted in substantial damage. The Bath Fire Department contained the fire.


Link: Bath Volunteer Fire Department. (2024, July 28). Bath Vol. Fire Department structure fire press release. Wellsville Regional News. Retrieved from https://wellsvilleregionalnews.blogspot.com/2024/07/bath-vol-fire-department-structure-fire.html


Video Shows Fire in Tulsa Living Room Starting After Dog Chews on Power Bank, Oklahoma


Summary: On May 1, 2024, a fire in a Tulsa living room started after a dog chewed on a lithium-ion power bank. The Tulsa Fire Department's quick response and a dog door ensured no injuries.


Link: Doan, C. (2024, July 31). Video shows fire in Tulsa living room starting after dog chews on power bank. News on 6. Retrieved from https://www.newson6.com/story/66aac5cab89e9dedddca9800/video-shows-fire-in-tulsa-living-room-starting-after-dog-chews-on-power-bank


Shed Destroyed by Fire from Lithium-Ion Battery Device in Queanbeyan, Australia


Summary: On July 31, 2024, a shed in Queanbeyan, New South Wales, was destroyed by a fire caused by a lithium-ion battery-powered device left on charge. Fire and Rescue NSW quickly extinguished the blaze, preventing its spread to nearby structures.


Link: Fire and Rescue NSW. (2024, July 31). Shed destroyed by fire from lithium-ion battery device left on charge - Queanbeyan. Retrieved from https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/incident.php?record=rec3CKKWBNcMtyC6y


Understanding the Hazards of Lithium-Ion Batteries


Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable power sources used in numerous devices, including smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, and power tools. Their popularity stems from their high energy density, lightweight nature, and ability to hold a charge for extended periods.


These fires typically start due to battery damage, manufacturing defects, improper charging, or exposure to extreme temperatures. When a lithium-ion battery overheats, it can enter a state called thermal runaway, leading to explosions or fires.


Lithium-ion battery fires can occur anywhere these batteries are used, stored, or charged. This includes homes, businesses, recycling centers, and vehicles. The recent incidents in places like Coventry, Yuma, and Nuneaton underscore the widespread nature of this risk.


Implementing fire prevention strategies and community risk reduction measures is important to minimizing the hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries. Proper handling, storage, and disposal of these batteries can prevent fires and save lives.


Key Safety Measures for Lithium-Ion Batteries


  1. Proper Charging: Always use the charger specified for your device and avoid overcharging. Never leave batteries charging unattended, especially overnight.

  2. Storage: Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures.

  3. Handling Damaged Batteries: If a battery shows signs of damage, such as swelling, leaking, or hissing, dispose of it properly following local regulations. Do not attempt to use it.

  4. Fire Safety Devices: Equip homes and businesses with smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.

  5. Awareness and Education: Educate communities about the risks and safe practices associated with lithium-ion batteries. Offer fire safety visits and inspections.


For more information relating to lithium ion battery safety visit the Fire Safety Research Institute's Battery Safety - Take Charge (batteryfiresafety.org) website.


The recent number of lithium-ion battery fires highlights the continued need for fire prevention and community risk reduction strategies. By understanding the risks and implementing safe practices, we can mitigate these hazards and protect our communities from the devastating effects of battery-related fires.


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