FRV Lithium-ion Battery Safety - Schools Stakeholder Kit

As the school year continues, many students are using devices such as laptops, tablets, phones, e-bikes and e-scooters. Most of these devices contain lithium-ion batteries, which have become part of everyday life, but need to be used safely. 

Fire services are responding to an increasing number of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, often caused by incorrect charging or leaving devices unattended. That’s why fire safety at home is especially important during the school year. 

You can help reduce the risk by: 

• Only using the charger and battery designed for each device 

• Unplugging devices once fully charged 

• Never charging devices on soft surfaces like beds or couches 

• Not charging devices overnight, or when no one is home 

• Charging larger devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters away from living spaces and keeping them clear of exits 

• Regularly checking devices and stopping use if a battery looks damaged, swollen or overheats 

You can watch Fire Rescue Victoria’s safety video here(opens in a new window) 

It’s also important to make sure smoke alarms are working and tested every month. Fire Rescue Victoria recommends installing smoke alarms in bedrooms, living rooms and near areas where devices are charged—because working smoke alarms save lives. 

For more tips on lithium-ion battery safety, visit: 
https://www.frv.vic.gov.au/battery-safety(opens in a new window)  

A few simple habits can help protect your home and your loved ones. 

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As the school year continues, many students are using devices like laptops, tablets, phones, e-bikes and e-scooters. These everyday devices use lithium-ion batteries and need to be used safely. Fire Rescue Victoria are encouraging us to always use the correct charger, unplug once fully charged, and never charge on beds or couches—especially overnight.

It’s also important to test your smoke alarms monthly, including in bedrooms and near charging areas, because working smoke alarms save lives.