Lithium-ion battery safety

A lithium-ion, or li-ion, battery is a type of rechargeable battery. They have become a popular choice as they are fast to charge, last a long time, and contain a lot of power for their size.

Some common products that use these types of batteries are:

• E-bikes and e-scooters
• Laptops
• Electric vehicles
• Mobile Phones
• Hoverboards
• E-cigarettes

Lithium-ion batteries are safe for everyday use if they’re used responsibly. Due to chemicals inside them they should always be charged, stored and disposed of correctly, if a battery has been dropped or damaged, they can catch fire and explode.

Improper charging of these batteries can result in fires or explosions. Here are some top tips to ensure you charge your lithium-ion batteries safely and prolong their lifespan:

• Charge and stored in a cool dry place
• Unplug chargers when the batteries are at full capacity
• Don’t charge while you are asleep
• Never charge a device, such as a mobile phone, under your pillow
• Always use the charger that came with the device or from a reputable supplier
• Don't put the device in the way of exits or in hallway

Just like alkaline batteries, lithium-ion batteries should not be placed in general household waste, the chemicals they contain can catch fire and explode, so they need to be recycled correctly, most local recycling centres will accept batteries, and you can find your closest recycling point at recycleyourelectricals.org.uk.