Battery safety risks increase in homes, experts warn

Experts from the Finnish Rescue Services Central Organization (SPEK) are warning of significant fire safety risks in homes due to a lack of awareness regarding battery-powered devices. It is estimated that a typical home may contain up to 100 such devices, ranging from smartphones and smartwatches to larger items like electric scooters and bicycles.

Lauri Lehto, an expert at SPEK, notes that while battery-operated devices are generally reliable when used correctly, common mistakes increase fire risks. These include overcharging, using incorrect chargers, leaving devices plugged in continuously, and charging devices while they are still hot from use. Common causes of battery fires include short circuits, physical damage, manufacturing defects, and heat exposure.

Small to medium-sized devices, particularly electric scooters and bicycles, present the highest safety risks. Lehto specifically warns against charging these devices in hallways, as a fire in such a location can block essential exit routes during an emergency. He also highlights that modified or non-official electric bikes and batteries may be more prone to fire compared to certified products.