Flair and Barnbrook Systems collaborate on lithium-ion fire safety technologies

by Featured NewsSafety

UK companies collaborate on lithium-ion fire safety technologies

Barnbrook Systems has reported a new collaboration with Flair focused on the development and deployment of lithium-ion fire suppression solutions in the UK.

The partnership combines Flair’s fire-resistant polymer and nanotechnology systems with Barnbrook’s BlueCube© monitoring technology.

According to Barnbrook Systems, the agreement enables them to expand solutions such as E:BAG, E:CRATE and E:PAD across various industries, including aviation, waste, data storage and personal device safety.

Combined expertise in monitoring and suppression

The two companies have backgrounds in aerospace, defence, maritime, rail and waste.

Barnbrook Systems, based in Fareham, Hampshire, was founded in 1978 and employs 45 people.

Its BlueCube© system monitors real-time data and communicates with phones, tablets, laptops, desktops and smartwatches.

This technology is integrated into the E:BAG to track internal conditions and confirm whether a fire has been suppressed before opening.

E:BAG and nanotechnology applications

Flair’s E:BAG is designed to contain and suppress lithium-ion battery fires in personal devices such as mobile phones, laptops, vapes, power tools, e-scooters and e-bikes.

Barnbrook Systems confirmed that the same technology is scaled for larger units including E:CRATE for the waste industry and E:PAD for data centres.

According to the company, the E:BAG has been trialled by TJ Waste and Recycling and was featured on The One Show on BBC One.

The original use case focused on aviation, where lithium-ion fires in passenger jets are a growing concern.

Strategic vision and development plans

Richard Dunn, director of Flair, said: “The aims of Flair and Barnbrook are closely aligned.

“Both of our businesses believe in the power of creative technology to transform lives and businesses through innovation and a commitment to excellence.

“Our partnership means we will be able to accelerate the development of new solutions and make a greater impact in a rapidly changing world.”

Andrew Barnett, managing director of Barnbrook Systems, added: “We are excited to partner with a likeminded business whose ambition and vision match our own.

“Collaboration is the key to unlocking technological development that can make a difference to everyday lives, transform businesses and support economic growth.

“We are looking forward to working closely with Flair to spread the reach of our solutions across the UK, Europe and the wider world.”

Flair is headquartered in Reading, with operations based out of Barnbrook Systems’ premises.

UK partnership launches lithium-ion fire safety solution: Summary

Barnbrook Systems has confirmed a new partnership with Flair.

The collaboration aims to develop and expand fire suppression and remote monitoring products.

The E:BAG is designed to contain lithium-ion battery fires in portable electronics and other devices.

Barnbrook’s BlueCube© system monitors and logs real-time data within the containment unit.

The E:BAG was developed for aviation and is now being trialled in the waste sector.

Other products include E:CRATE and E:PAD for use in recycling and data centres.

Richard Dunn of Flair and Andrew Barnett of Barnbrook both support the partnership’s shared vision.

Flair is based in Reading, with operations at Barnbrook’s Fareham site.

The partnership combines nanotechnology and real-time sensing to reduce fire risks.

The information was first reported by Barnbrook Systems.

Emirates adopts Nordisk Aviation’s fire-resistant cargo containers for enhanced safety

by AviationFeatured NewsPassiveProductsSafety

Agreement between Nordisk Aviation and Emirates

Nordisk Aviation has signed an agreement with Emirates to supply up to 10,000 fire-resistant AKE containers for baggage and cargo transport.

The containers are designed to mitigate the risks posed by lithium-ion battery fires.

Nordisk Aviation has stated that its AKE containers provide advanced fire protection while maintaining a lightweight design.

Fire safety testing with lithium-ion batteries

To assess the performance of the containers, Nordisk Aviation collaborated with Emirates on a series of fire tests.

The trials extended beyond standard aerospace fire regulations, which typically focus on Class A paper fires.

The test involved placing 1,000 lithium-ion battery cells across 60 pieces of luggage, along with flammable items such as clothing, toiletries, and alcohol.

The Nordisk AKE container contained the fire for the full six-hour test by allowing flue gases to escape while preventing oxygen inflow.

Design and sustainability features

Nordisk Aviation has stated that its AKE containers are the lightest available on the market while offering high levels of fire resistance.

The company also highlighted that most components of the containers are 100% recyclable, reducing environmental impact.

The fire-resistant features are aimed at improving aviation safety, particularly in cases where lithium-ion batteries are transported in cargo and baggage.

Ongoing risks of lithium-ion battery fires

Lithium-ion batteries remain a concern for cargo and baggage transport, both when they are declared and when they are transported without disclosure.

Nordisk Aviation has reported that its testing has provided insight into factors affecting fire intensity, helping to improve fire containment measures.

The agreement between Nordisk Aviation and Emirates aims to improve safety standards while supporting ongoing collaboration in fire protection technologies for aviation.

Emirates adopts Nordisk Aviation’s fire-resistant cargo containers for enhanced safety: Summary

Nordisk Aviation has signed an agreement with Emirates to provide up to 10,000 fire-resistant AKE containers for cargo and baggage.

The containers are designed to mitigate lithium-ion battery fire risks while maintaining a lightweight structure.

Nordisk Aviation and Emirates conducted fire tests that went beyond standard aerospace regulations, using 1,000 lithium-ion battery cells and additional flammable materials.

The AKE container successfully contained the fire for six hours.

Nordisk Aviation has stated that its AKE containers are fully recyclable, supporting sustainability efforts.

Lithium-ion battery fires remain a concern for aviation, and the company has reported that its testing has helped identify key factors affecting fire intensity.

The agreement supports continued collaboration between Nordisk Aviation and Emirates on aviation safety technologies.

Fire hazards of lithium-ion batteries in buildings: CROSS UK report

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Lithium-ion battery risks detailed in new CROSS UK paper

Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures (CROSS UK) has published a Topic Paper examining the fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries in the built environment.

The paper presents information from publicly available research, industry guidance, and confidential reports within the UK.

It highlights the fire and explosion risks posed by both battery-powered devices and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

According to CROSS UK, lithium-ion batteries are used in smartphones, laptops, electric vehicles, and other applications due to their high energy density and long lifespan.

However, they also present safety challenges, particularly in the event of thermal runaway, a self-sustaining reaction that can lead to fires or explosions.

Understanding thermal runaway and its hazards

Thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries can be triggered by overcharging, short-circuiting, or overheating.

Once initiated, it can cause rapid temperature increases, producing flammable and toxic vapours.

These incidents are difficult to control, with batteries capable of reigniting due to residual heat.

In some cases, they may react violently with common extinguishing agents.

CROSS UK’s paper warns that stakeholders must be aware of these risks and implement mitigation measures.

Recommended safety measures

The Topic Paper outlines several strategies to manage lithium-ion battery fire risks.

These include the use of battery management systems (BMS), fire detection and suppression systems, safe storage and disposal practices, adequate ventilation, and regular inspections.

CROSS UK states that emergency procedures should also be in place to respond to battery-related fire incidents effectively.

Intended audience for the paper

CROSS UK’s paper is relevant for those responsible for designing, constructing, and managing the built environment.

The organisation recommends it be reviewed by local authorities, building control bodies, developers, building surveyors, architects, fire engineers, facilities managers, and fire and rescue services.

The paper is also aimed at owners and occupiers of buildings where lithium-ion battery technology is in use or planned for installation.

Fire hazards of lithium-ion batteries in buildings: Summary

CROSS UK has published a Topic Paper examining fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in the built environment.

The report explains how thermal runaway can cause fires or explosions, making them difficult to control due to flammable vapours, potential reignition, and reactions with extinguishing agents.

The paper highlights the importance of safety measures, including battery management systems, fire detection and suppression systems, ventilation, and emergency procedures.

CROSS UK advises that those responsible for the design, construction, and management of buildings should stay informed about lithium-ion battery risks.

The full paper is available on the CROSS UK website.

Lithium-ion battery fires increase in NSW, prompting FRNSW warning

by Featured NewsSafety

FRNSW responds to growing number of lithium-ion battery fires

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has reported an increase in lithium-ion battery fires, with 25 incidents recorded in 2025 so far.

Since 2 February, firefighters have attended 13 lithium-ion battery-related fires, including four incidents within 12 hours last week.

In one case in Sydney’s southwest, an e-scooter exploded and caught fire, injuring two men—one from flying debris and the other from smoke inhalation.

Firefighters believe the incident was caused by an incorrect charger used with a modified device, two common factors in lithium-ion battery fires.

FRNSW is urging the public to take precautions when charging and using battery-powered devices.

Survey highlights public complacency around lithium-ion battery risks

A NSW Government survey has revealed that while 44% of respondents understand the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, many still engage in unsafe charging practices.

Findings show that:

  • 73% charge devices while unattended
  • 70% charge batteries near living spaces or exits
  • 64% leave devices plugged in after charging
  • 51% use low-quality chargers or batteries

Additionally, 32% of respondents said they did not know how to implement safety measures, while 29% were unsure.

Authorities are calling for increased public awareness to reduce the risk of fires.

NSW introduces new product safety standards for e-micromobility devices

NSW Fair Trading has implemented new product safety standards to improve the quality of lithium-ion-powered e-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, and hoverboards.

The regulations, which took effect on 1 February, require these vehicles, along with their batteries and chargers, to meet safety compliance standards.

Further measures, including mandatory testing and certification, will come into effect in August 2025, with labelling requirements set for February 2026.

From late February 2025, an information standard will also be introduced to ensure consumers receive safety guidance at the time of purchase.

Retailers and manufacturers must provide this information or face fines of up to $5,500 per breach.

Authorities emphasise safe disposal of lithium-ion batteries

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is urging residents to dispose of lithium-ion batteries properly, citing an increase in fires caused by batteries discarded in household waste.

EPA Executive Director Alexandra Geddes said: “Every year, we see fires breaking out in garbage trucks and recycling facilities because people are throwing batteries in household bins. This is not just dangerous – it’s avoidable.”

The EPA advises consumers to take used batteries to designated drop-off points, such as supermarkets and Community Recycling Centres, to prevent fire hazards.

Lithium-ion battery fires increase in NSW, prompting FRNSW warning: Summary

Fire and Rescue NSW has recorded 25 lithium-ion battery fires in 2025, including 13 incidents since 2 February.

An e-scooter fire in Sydney’s southwest resulted in injuries to two men.

Authorities believe the fire was caused by an incorrect charger used with a modified device.

A NSW Government survey found that many residents continue to engage in unsafe charging behaviours, despite awareness of the risks.

In response, NSW Fair Trading has introduced new safety standards for e-micromobility devices, with further regulations set for August 2025 and February 2026.

The NSW EPA has warned against improper battery disposal, linking it to fires in garbage trucks and recycling facilities.

Officials advise the public to follow fire safety guidelines when using lithium-ion-powered devices.

UK government publishes lithium-ion battery safety guidelines for e-bikes

by Featured NewsSafety

Statutory guidelines issued for lithium-ion battery safety in e-bikes

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has released new statutory guidelines to address safety concerns surrounding lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes.

These guidelines, developed under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 (GPSR), aim to assist businesses producing, importing, or distributing e-bike batteries to ensure their safety.

According to OPSS, at least 10 fatalities and nearly 200 fires in the UK during 2023 were linked to lithium-ion battery-related incidents in e-bikes or e-scooters.

Mitigating thermal runaway risks

Thermal runaway, a process where battery cells overheat uncontrollably, has been identified as a major fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries.

The guidelines emphasise the inclusion of safety mechanisms, such as battery management systems, to prevent thermal runaway during normal use or foreseeable misuse.

Producers must ensure batteries are equipped with protective features to detect and address over-voltage, over-current, and unsafe temperatures.

Distributors are also required to verify that products meet these safety requirements before placing them on the market.

Legal compliance and enforcement measures

The GPSR mandates that all consumer products, including lithium-ion batteries for e-bikes, meet general safety requirements.

Producers and distributors must ensure their products are free from risks or present minimal risks when used as intended.

Non-compliance with the GPSR may lead to enforcement actions by OPSS or local authorities, including recalls, product withdrawals, and possible prosecution.

Criminal sanctions may also be imposed where breaches are deemed severe.

Responsibilities of producers and distributors

Producers must conduct safety assessments, monitor product performance, and supply adequate information to consumers regarding safe usage.

Distributors are obligated to act with due care, ensuring that only compliant and safe products reach the market.

Both groups must cooperate with enforcement authorities by providing documentation or addressing risks identified in their products.

UK Government publishes lithium-ion battery safety guidelines for e-bikes: Summary

The UK government, via the Office for Product Safety and Standards, has issued statutory guidelines to improve the safety of lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes.

These measures are aimed at addressing fire risks caused by thermal runaway.

Producers and distributors are required to incorporate safety mechanisms, comply with the General Product Safety Regulations, and cooperate with enforcement authorities.

Non-compliance may result in sanctions, including recalls, withdrawals, or prosecution.

The guidelines are applicable across Great Britain and are strongly recommended for Northern Ireland markets.

S Jones Containers to discuss lithium-ion battery regulation at Fire Safety Event

by EventsFeatured NewsSafety

Panel to address UK lithium-ion battery regulation

Walsall-based container conversion specialist S Jones Containers is set to host a panel discussion at The Fire Safety Event in April 2025.

The seminar, led by Andrew Nicholls, Conversions General Manager at S Jones Containers, will focus on the regulatory gap surrounding the manufacture and storage of lithium-ion batteries in the UK.

It will also explore how manufacturers can safeguard staff and equipment during battery development and testing phases.

Lithium-ion batteries, such as those used in electric bikes and vehicles, can pose significant fire risks during “thermal runaway” events, which can cause fires to burn intensely for prolonged periods.

The panel will examine how proper storage and handling can mitigate these risks.

Specialist storage solutions developed for battery safety

Over the past decade, S Jones Conversions has worked with manufacturers to develop containerised storage solutions to support battery testing and storage.

These containers are designed to maintain safety during intensive testing processes, including cycle and abuse testing.

To address the challenges posed by high-intensity battery testing, the company collaborated with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and battery manufacturers.

The resulting solutions are engineered to withstand the unique stresses of the battery development process.

Calls for UK battery certification reform

S Jones Conversions has been vocal about the need for enhanced regulations on battery manufacturing and testing.

Earlier this year, the company supported amendments to the Product Safety and Metrology Bill, which aim to reduce risks from inadequately tested batteries.

The seminar at The Fire Safety Event is seen as an opportunity to continue advocating for changes that will enhance safety and accountability within the battery industry.

Event details to be announced in 2025

The Fire Safety Event, held at NEC Birmingham, is dedicated to improving fire safety management across industries.

The 2025 edition will take place over three days in April and is expected to feature a range of discussions and expert panels.

Details of the event’s schedule and speakers will be released in the new year.

S Jones Containers to host panel on lithium-ion battery regulation at NEC Birmingham: Summary

S Jones Containers will lead a panel at The Fire Safety Event in April 2025 at NEC Birmingham.

The seminar will address the need for stricter UK regulations on lithium-ion battery manufacture and storage.

Andrew Nicholls will host the session, discussing risks associated with battery testing and handling, including thermal runaway events.

S Jones Conversions has developed containerised storage solutions in collaboration with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and industry manufacturers.

The event will continue calls for regulatory reform, following the company’s support for changes to the Product Safety and Metrology Bill.

Event details will be announced in early 2025.

London e-bike and e-scooter fires rise, Black Friday sales surge

by Featured News

Black Friday e-bike and scooter sales in London

According to London Fire Brigade, e-bike and e-scooter fires occur on average once every two days in the past year.

Consumer safety charity Electrical Safety First and the London Fire Brigade have issued a joint warning regarding the risks associated with purchasing e-bikes, scooters, and conversion kits online during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.

Research commissioned by Electrical Safety First and the London Fire Brigade surveyed over 2,000 Londoners.

The study found that e-bikes and e-scooters are among the top 10 most sought-after products for this Black Friday.

Additionally, 11% of respondents considered purchasing an e-bike conversion kit.

Online marketplaces pose safety risks

More than one in five respondents indicated they would consider buying an e-bike, e-scooter, or conversion kit during Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals.

Of these, 58% preferred shopping through online marketplaces.

This preference raises concerns about the potential for purchasing substandard or unsafe products.

Lesley Rudd, Chief Executive of Electrical Safety First, stated: “Buying from a reputable manufacturer or retailer has never been so vital when it comes to electrically powered bikes and conversion kits.”

She emphasised the importance of compliance and safety in preventing battery failures that could lead to fires.

Conversion kits and charging hazards

Experts are particularly worried about modified electric bikes and conversion kits.

Poor installation, substandard parts, or incorrect charging can result in fires.

Electrical Safety First and the London Fire Brigade advise that batteries must be charged with compatible chargers to ensure safe voltage and current levels.

The survey revealed that 27% of Londoners are not confident in selecting compatible chargers for their e-bike or e-scooter batteries.

This lack of confidence increases the risk of overcharging and subsequent battery fires.

Personal tragedies highlight the dangers

One south west London resident, Don Hettiarachchi, experienced a devastating fire caused by his son’s converted e-bike.

The fire destroyed their home and left the family in emergency accommodation.

Don recounted: “My son’s converted e-bike was charging inside the conservatory, had caught fire and the kitchen was full of thick black smoke.”

Don advised caution to potential buyers: “Make sure the e-bike battery and the charger are compatible with one another.

“Make sure you buy from a reputable seller that you know and trust.”

Charge Safe campaign aims to prevent fires

The London Fire Brigade has launched the #ChargeSafe campaign to raise awareness about the fire risks associated with e-bikes and e-scooters.

The campaign seeks regulatory changes to prevent the sale of poor quality batteries, chargers, and conversion kits on online marketplaces.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Richard Field commented: “We are urging anyone looking to buy an e-bike or e-scooter, or the batteries, chargers or conversion kits, do so from a reputable seller.”

London e-bike and e-scooter fires rise, Black Friday sales surge: Summary

The London Fire Brigade and Electrical Safety First have issued warnings about the increased risk of e-bike and e-scooter fires during Black Friday sales.

Research indicates a surge in purchases, with many Londoners opting to buy online, potentially leading to unsafe products.

Experts highlight the dangers of substandard conversion kits and incompatible chargers.

A personal account from a London resident underscores the severe consequences of such fires.

The #ChargeSafe campaign aims to educate consumers and advocate for stricter regulations to ensure product safety.

NSW safety information standard targets lithium-ion e-micromobility risks in Australia

by Featured NewsSafety

Lithium-ion concerns: NSW Fair Trading proposes information standard for consumer safety

As reported by the NSW Government, NSW Fair Trading has announced the introduction of an Information Standard specifically for lithium-ion battery-powered e-micromobility devices.

This measure is part of a broader strategy to enhance consumer safety amid the growing use of devices such as e-scooters, e-bikes, e-skateboards, and hoverboards.

The new standard is aimed at providing consumers with clear, accessible guidance on safe handling, storage, and disposal practices for e-micromobility products.

NSW Fair Trading has indicated that penalties up to $5,500 may be applied to retailers who fail to meet the Information Standard requirements.

Key areas of safety addressed in the information standard

The Information Standard will cover essential safety guidance across several areas.

Fire safety instructions will inform consumers of signs of battery-related fire risks and outline emergency procedures.

Electrical safety measures will caution against modifications and provide guidelines for safe charging practices.

Additional requirements include advice on proper storage and environmental protection for these products.

The standard will also address service and repair information, urging users to avoid unapproved modifications and offering details on safe usage.

Compliance requirements for retailers and manufacturers

The upcoming Information Standard is set to align with broader product safety standards that mandate new testing, certification, and marking requirements for e-micromobility devices.

These regulations, which will come into effect in stages from 1 February 2025, are designed to prevent substandard and potentially hazardous products from reaching consumers.

The standards target a significant reduction in fire incidents, which have been linked to lithium-ion batteries in these devices.

Retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers will face fines of up to $825,000 for non-compliance, reinforcing the government’s commitment to enhancing public safety.

Consultation and public input on information standards

NSW Fair Trading is actively consulting with industry stakeholders and government agencies to finalise the specifics of the Information Standard.

Public input is invited through the NSW Government’s consultation website until 6 December 2024.

This consultation period allows the community to voice their concerns and contribute to shaping the final framework for consumer safety in e-micromobility products.

Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong commented: “We need to ensure we have a robust regulatory framework to keep consumers safe from the potential harms posed by some lithium-ion battery-powered products.”

The NSW Government is also collaborating with the NSW Environment Protection Authority on broader battery regulation initiatives to protect consumers, workers, and the environment.

NSW introduces new safety information standard for lithium-ion e-micromobility devices: Summary

NSW Fair Trading is preparing to implement an Information Standard in early 2025 for lithium-ion battery-powered e-micromobility devices, including e-scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards.

This measure seeks to provide clear safety guidance on fire and electrical safety, storage, usage, and disposal of these devices, aiming to reduce risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires.

The new standard complements broader safety regulations due to be phased in from 1 February 2025, mandating compliance for retailers and manufacturers with testing and certification requirements.

Retailers failing to meet these standards could face fines of up to $5,500, with non-compliance penalties reaching $825,000 for manufacturers and suppliers.

Public consultation is open until 6 December 2024.

Bull Products launches LFX lithium-ion fire extinguishers for versatile fire protection

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Bull Products unveils new LFX extinguishers designed for lithium-ion battery fires

Bull Products, a provider of temporary fire protection solutions, has added the new LFX lithium-ion fire extinguishers to its range of fire safety products.

These extinguishers are specifically designed to address the growing risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires.

As reported by Bull Products, these water-based extinguishers offer effective protection across various sectors, including construction sites, offices, and retail environments.

The rise in the use of lithium-ion batteries in devices such as smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles has led to increased concerns about fire hazards.

The new LFX extinguishers are engineered to mitigate these risks by utilising a water-based fire extinguishing agent with heat-absorbing properties, which breaks the thermal runaway chain reaction, cools ignited cells, and prevents the spread of fire.

Carl Leeson, Head of Sales at Bull Products, said: “The safety of lithium-ion batteries is a growing concern, especially with their increasing use in everyday life.”

The LFX extinguishers are available in 3, 6, and 9-litre options, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, from household use to industrial environments.

The extinguishers can be purchased individually or as part of a First Responder Station, with or without protective gear.

Versatility and secondary fire protection capabilities

The LFX extinguishers are not only designed to combat lithium-ion battery fires but are also equipped to handle secondary A-class fires.

This feature ensures that any peripheral fires resulting from battery explosions can be quickly extinguished, providing comprehensive protection in emergency situations.

These extinguishers are adaptable for use in diverse environments, from small households to large industrial settings.

In addition to the extinguishers, Bull Products offers options to add a fire alarm and protective wear such as a full-face respirator mask and heavy-duty Tegera gloves to the First Responder Station.

This flexibility allows users to customise their fire safety solutions according to their specific needs.

Certification and standards compliance

The 6 and 9-litre LFX extinguishers have passed the NTA 8133 standard, which is the first publication specifically addressing lithium-ion battery fires with medium capacities up to 600 Wh.

This certification underscores the reliability and effectiveness of Bull Products’ extinguishers in managing these high-risk fire scenarios.

The adherence to these standards provides confidence in the performance of the LFX extinguishers in real-world applications.

Bull Products continues to demonstrate its commitment to fire safety by ensuring that its products meet stringent safety requirements.

Product availability and additional options

Bull Products offers the LFX extinguishers in three different sizes—3, 6, and 9 litres—catering to various needs and environments.

These extinguishers can be purchased as stand-alone units or as part of a comprehensive First Responder Station.

Customers have the option to include additional safety features, such as a fire alarm or protective gear, to enhance their emergency preparedness.

The flexibility in product offerings ensures that users can find a solution that meets their specific safety requirements.

For more detailed information about the LFX extinguishers and purchasing options, visit Bull Products’ official website.

Bull Products launches LFX lithium-ion fire extinguishers for versatile fire protection: Summary

Bull Products has introduced the LFX lithium-ion fire extinguishers, designed to address the increasing risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires.

These water-based extinguishers are effective across various sectors, including construction, retail, and office environments.

Available in 3, 6, and 9-litre options, the extinguishers also provide secondary A-class fire protection, and have passed the NTA 8133 standard.

The LFX extinguishers can be purchased individually or as part of a First Responder Station with optional protective gear and fire alarms.

For more information, visit Bull Products’ official website.

Dog chews lithium-ion battery, sparking house fire in Tulsa

by Featured NewsSafety

Dog causes house fire by chewing lithium-ion battery

As reported by Forbes, the Tulsa Fire Department has released a video showing the dangers of mishandling lithium-ion batteries.

The footage captures a fire starting after a dog chews through a lithium-ion battery, underscoring the importance of proper usage and storage of these power sources.

In the video, Andy Little, the Tulsa Fire Department public information officer, states: “Fire departments all over the country are seeing fires related to these batteries and we want the public to learn about usage, safe storage and proper disposal of these potentially dangerous batteries.”

The footage, taken from a home monitoring system, shows the fire igniting as the dog chews on the battery, ultimately causing a fire in the pet bed.

Fortunately, no pets were harmed as they escaped through a dog door.

However, the fire caused significant damage to the house.

Risks associated with lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in many devices such as phones, laptops, and electric vehicles due to their lightweight and rechargeable nature.

Despite their convenience, these batteries can pose serious risks when mishandled.

Little explained: “Lithium-ion batteries are known for storing a significant amount of energy in a compact space.

“However, when this energy is released uncontrollably, it can generate heat, produce flammable and toxic gases and even lead to explosions.”

Incidents can occur due to various conditions, including exposure to extreme heat, physical damage, overcharging, or using incompatible charging equipment.

High-profile cases have involved fires on airplanes, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration to keep a record of such incidents.

Safety guidelines for lithium-ion batteries

The National Fire Protection Association provides guidelines for safe handling of lithium-ion batteries:

  • Only purchase batteries listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
  • Use the charging equipment supplied with the device.
  • Stop charging once the battery is full.
  • Avoid storing batteries in extreme temperatures or blocking exits.
  • Do not dispose of batteries in household garbage or recycling bins.
  • Discontinue use if the battery shows signs of damage.
  • Do not modify batteries or chargers.
  • Have repairs done by qualified professionals.

Impact of the incident

The fire in Tulsa serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of understanding and properly handling electronics.

Little remarked: “It could have been much worse if there had been no means of escape or if the family was asleep at the time.”

The Tulsa Fire Department aims to raise awareness and prevent similar incidents by educating the public on the potential hazards of lithium-ion batteries.

Dog causes house fire by chewing lithium-ion battery, Tulsa Fire Department shares: Summary

The Tulsa Fire Department has released video footage showing a fire caused by a dog chewing on a lithium-ion battery, as reported by Forbes.

The incident, which resulted in significant damage to a house, emphasizes the need for proper handling and storage of these batteries.

The National Fire Protection Association provides guidelines to prevent such incidents, including using approved batteries and chargers, avoiding extreme temperatures, and not disposing of batteries in household waste.

The Tulsa Fire Department aims to educate the public on these safety measures to prevent future fires.