Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Surge Across the UK, Raising Safety Concerns
Firefighters in the UK are confronting a rising challenge as lithium-ion battery fires, occurring at an alarming rate of one every five hours, become a growing concern. Despite their widespread use in everyday devices, public awareness and regulations have struggled to keep pace with mitigating this emerging hazard.
These batteries power a multitude of devices, from mobile phones and electric toothbrushes to ebikes, e-scooters, and electric vehicles. According to data compiled by the global insurer QBE through freedom of information requests, there were 1,760 fires associated with lithium-ion batteries in 2025 alone, a 147% increase over three years, equating to nearly five incidents every day.
While electric vehicle fires increased by 133% in the same period, the number of such vehicles on UK roads also tripled. Notably, ebike fires accounted for nearly a third of all these incidents, with a significant proportion involving retrofitted or converted models rather than certified ones.
In 2025, firefighters responded to 520 ebike-related fires, a stark rise from 149 in 2022. London alone experienced 230 of these fires, and tragically, five fatalities have been recorded in the past three years. “We believe regulation can help improve product safety and reduce the chance of consumers being exposed on online marketplaces to faulty or counterfeit products such as ebike batteries, chargers and conversion kits,” stated Spencer Sutcliff, the London fire brigade’s deputy commissioner for prevention.
The dangers of lithium-ion batteries were further highlighted by a fire that devastated a historic building in Glasgow, leading to a two-week closure of Central station. The blaze reportedly started in a shop selling vapes, which utilize these batteries.
These batteries pose a significant risk when damaged or improperly used, potentially causing a phenomenon known as thermal runaway. This reaction can lead to the battery’s temperature escalating uncontrollably, emitting toxic gases, and creating an explosive flame.
QBE’s research, which involved 46 out of 52 UK fire brigades, found that nearly half of all lithium-ion battery fires occurred in homes. Improper disposal of these batteries, which should be recycled rather than discarded in regular bins, has led to costly fires in bin lorries and recycling centers, exceeding £1 billion annually.
Adrian Simmonds, a risk manager at QBE Insurance, emphasized the importance of awareness, stating, “Thermal runaway caused by these types of batteries burns differently, takes much longer to tackle and can require up to 10 times more water to contain.” He advised using only certified products, charging away from escape routes, and avoiding overnight charging.
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) echoed these concerns, stressing the risks posed by poorly manufactured or modified ebikes. “We are especially concerned about fires involving poorly manufactured, modified or converted ebikes, which continue to account for a disproportionate number of incidents,” said an NFCC spokesperson, highlighting the need for heightened regulation and guidance in this rapidly evolving field.
Furthermore, the Fire Brigades Union called for increased investment in training and equipment to handle the unique challenges posed by lithium-ion battery fires, particularly the hazardous gases they emit, which could pose long-term health risks.
Original Story at www.theguardian.com