Lithium-ion batteries power our phones, laptops, e-bikes, and electric vehicles — but UK safety standards haven’t kept pace, according to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC).
Why this matters:
🔹 Fires caused by these batteries are explosive, spread rapidly, and can reignite after being extinguished
🔹 They release toxic gases, posing serious risks to the public and firefighters
🔹 At least six fatalities since 2023 have been linked to e-bike and e-scooter fires
NFCC is calling for:
✅ Mandatory product safety rules and independent testing
✅ Regulation of online marketplaces to block unsafe products
✅ Better battery disposal systems and updated building regulations
✅ National awareness campaigns on safe charging and storage
✅ Investment in firefighting research and equipment
NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan warns:
“These technologies must not come at the cost of public and firefighter safety.”
👉 Time for urgent action to keep pace with innovation.
