Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
A recent report from a Welsh fire and rescue service has highlighted the increasing risk of fires posed by lithium batteries. Specifically, lithium-ion batteries power various devices such as e-bikes, scooters, mobile phones, laptops, and e-vapes. Campaigning charity Electrical Safety First has expressed concerns about fires caused by substandard batteries in e-scooters and e-bikes, calling for stricter regulations to reduce risks. In response, the UK government has announced plans to update product safety laws related to batteries and take measures at ports and borders to prevent unsafe products from reaching consumers.
The warning comes after a tragic incident in Cardiff where a house fire ignited by a lithium-ion battery-powered scooter resulted in seven people being hospitalized. Marc Davies, a home safety manager from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, highlighted the dangers of lithium-ion batteries and the potential for thermal runaway, which can lead to fire, explosion, and unpredictable behavior. According to data from the fire and rescue service, there have been 136 fires involving lithium-ion batteries in south Wales, with a significant number occurring in the past two years.
In other regions of Wales, incidents involving lithium batteries have also been recorded. Mid and west Wales reported 26 incidents with three injuries, while north Wales saw 62 incidents, nine of which resulted in injuries. Electrical Safety First emphasized the severity of fires caused by substandard batteries, urging the government to implement stricter rules through new product regulation. The government is focused on raising awareness through campaigns like ‘Buy Safe, Be Safe’ and updating product safety laws to protect the public.
Recent fires caused by lithium batteries have raised concerns about safety and proper disposal. Natural Resources Wales is urging people to dispose of lithium-ion batteries correctly to prevent fires. Damaged or crushed batteries can release flammable electrolytes, leading to intense fires and harmful smoke. Nia Brunning from NRW emphasized the environmental and safety risks posed by irresponsible disposal of lithium batteries, highlighting the need for proper waste management practices
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.