'You'd want peace of mind': Christmas shoppers urged to buy quality lithium battery products

Christmas shoppers are being warned by authorities to buy good quality lithium products to prevent dangerous battery fires, which are increasing.

There have been 180 lithium-ion battery fires in NSW this year, which is an increase of nine per cent compared to last year, according to Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) statistics.

"If a battery is compromised through damage or overheating, it can go into what we call 'Thermal Runaway', FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said.

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"It will pop and crackle, then give off toxic gas before exploding in intense flames that are extremely difficult to extinguish."

"If you're buying presents that require Lithium-Ion batteries this Christmas, make sure those batteries are manufactured by a trusted company.

"You'd want peace of mind…if the price is too good to be true or there's no recognised brand on the batteries, steer clear and ensure you're shopping for a quality product."

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Firefighters are responding to more than three battery fires a week from charging issues or incorrect disposal according to emergency services minister Jihad Dib.

"When shopping for gifts this Christmas don't cut corners when buying Lithium-ion battery-powered products, we don't want a gift under the tree to ruin the festive season," Dib said.

"These batteries are used to power everything from mobile phones and laptops to vacuum cleaners and e-scooters.

"We would encourage people to choose carefully and consider how they use them in the home."

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NSW Fair Trading has conducted 166 inspections of retailers selling electrical devices.

Thirty models were found to have non-compliant chargers and were instructed to be removed from sale.

"I'm reminding buyers to store batteries safely and if they have concerns they should reach out to the manufacturer or NSW Fair Trading," Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said.

FRNSW's advice to ensure batteries are used safely is below.

• Do not over-charge lithium-ion batteries or leave them charging overnight unattended.
• Do not charge lithium-ion batteries on beds, sofas or around highly flammable and insulating materials.
• Always use compliant and approved charging equipment for lithium-ion batteries, don't mix and match components and voltage.
• Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing the lithium-ion battery cells
• Store lithium-ion batteries in a cool, dry area away from combustible materials, and larger devices like e-bikes and gardening tools should be stored outside of bedrooms and living spaces
• Do not charge or use lithium-ion batteries that show signs of damage.