There was an article in the Age yesterday about house / apartment fires caused by batteries.

Some of you can read the full story here (needs a subscription) https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/a-ticking-time-bomb-family-s-plea-on-battery-fires-after-their-home-is-charred-pets-gone-20240424-p5fm81.html

Some parts of the story….

Their story is one of a growing number of lithium-ion battery fires in Victoria.

These energy-dense, rechargeable batteries are in dozens of everyday appliances including laptops, phones, power tools, stick vacuum cleaners, portable speakers, e-cigarettes and, notably, e-bikes and scooters.

Authorities say the No.1 rule is to avoid buying a device with a rechargeable battery unless it comes from a reputable brand and seller.

The ACCC estimates that by 2026, the average household will have 33 devices powered by lithium-ion batteries.

The consumer regulator was alarmed last year that a national voluntary survey of more than 4000 Australians found 54 per cent of respondents used aftermarket chargers, 39 per cent did not know how to correctly dispose of lithium-ion batteries, and many respondents said they would leave devices unattended while charging.

Fischer says Fire Rescue Victoria is particularly concerned about the growing risks for people living in apartments where dwellings typically have one entrance and are more likely to have people storing e-bikes and scooters in smaller spaces.

For those of you worried about Electric vehicles, here is a short video by an independent organisation.