What are lithium-ion batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries. You can find them in a host of appliances and electronic devices around the home.  

Fires involving these batteries can be Fast Fierce and Fatal. They are one of the fastest growing fire risks in homes today.  

They can start suddenly, burn fiercely and often leave people little chance to escape. 

The number of these fires is increasing. In 2025 Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) were called to ten fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, compared to five the year before and four in 2023.  

Help keep yourself and your loved ones safe from these fires by following the safety tips provided by NFRS and Norfolk County Council Trading Standards.  

You can find lithium-ion batteries in household electrical items such as:

• Mobile phones  
• Tablets 
• Laptops 
• Mobility scooters  
• e-bikes 
• e-scooters  
• Vapes (or e-cigarettes) 
• Hover boards  
• Electric toothbrushes  
• Some children's toys and books  

If these batteries become damaged or begin to fail, they can start fires which quickly spread.