With lithium-ion battery fires becoming one of London’s fastest-growing fire trends—particularly due to e-bikes – Pen Underwriting (PEN) has issued essential guidance on how to use and manage these batteries safely. Poor quality batteries, incompatible chargers, and DIY conversions are major culprits behind recent incidents.
Lithium-ion batteries power everything from phones and laptops to power tools and e-scooters. While they are safe when used correctly, mishandling or using counterfeit parts can cause fires or even explosions.
Key Safety Tips:
- Purchase batteries from reputable sources only.
- Always follow manufacturer guidelines for use, charging, and storage.
- Charge batteries on hard, flat surfaces—never overnight or unattended.
- Use original chargers and avoid overcharging.
- Regularly inspect devices and cables for damage or overheating.
Users should also keep a look out for failure signs such as swelling, overheating, hissing noises, or strange odours—urging immediate disconnection and professional inspection if these are detected.
