London: Essential Tips To Prevent Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

Published on December 2, 2025

The holiday rush is all most here, which means tons of travelers, and tons of lithium-ion batteries. These are used in most of our everyday technology, including cell phones, laptops, e-scooters and e-bikes. But with all the travel over the holidays, and the increased use of these batteries, risks around fire safety have surfaced. The UK Government has recognized these risks with batteries and is recommending travelers take extra care and precautions while traveling this holiday season.

The Hidden Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries, which power a wide range of devices, have transformed the way people live and travel. However, these batteries can pose a significant risk when damaged or improperly handled, especially during transit. According to government data, lithium-ion battery incidents were reported on over two flights per week in 2024, underscoring the importance of addressing this issue before the holiday travel rush begins.

With many travellers carrying multiple battery-powered devices, the potential for fire-related accidents increases, especially in confined spaces like aircraft cabins or train compartments. Despite the risks, a significant portion of the public remains unaware of the dangers associated with these devices. A recent study found that 60% of travellers are unaware of how common lithium-ion batteries are in everyday products and the potential hazards posed by faulty, counterfeit, or improperly charged devices.

Best Practices for Battery Safety While Travelling

To reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires during the busy holiday season, UK authorities have provided clear guidelines for safe handling, storage, and charging of battery-powered devices. Tourists are urged to take extra care in the following areas:

1. Choose Certified Devices
   When purchasing lithium-ion battery-powered products, travellers should ensure that the devices are certified by recognised safety authorities. Certified devices meet crucial safety standards, reducing the likelihood of issues such as overheating or malfunction.
2. Handle Devices with Care
   It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storing devices. Devices should always be charged in safe environments, away from heat sources and flammable materials. Charging devices under blankets, pillows, or in bags should be strictly avoided, as these environments can increase the risk of fire. In addition, tourists are advised to use only the charger provided by the manufacturer to avoid electrical faults.
3. Stay Alert for Warning Signs
   Monitoring devices for signs of damage is essential to preventing fires. Tourists should regularly check for issues such as swelling, punctures, or unusual sounds from devices. If any device emits a strange smell or smoke, it should be immediately unplugged and removed from use. It’s also important not to place any lithium-ion-powered devices, including gifts, in checked luggage during air travel, as they pose a fire risk in the cargo hold.

Travel Precautions and Emergency Planning

In addition to general safety practices, holidaymakers are encouraged to be mindful of travel regulations and emergency procedures. While flying, the UK government recommends keeping all lithium-ion battery-powered devices in carry-on luggage, where they are easier to monitor and manage. Passengers should also adhere to size and weight restrictions imposed by airlines for devices and chargers to minimise the chance of accidents.

Tourists should familiarise themselves with fire safety protocols both at home and while travelling. In the event of a fire, it is critical to have an escape plan in place and know the location of emergency exits at airports, train stations, and hotels. Should an incident occur, evacuating immediately and alerting authorities will help mitigate risks to life and property.

Disposal and Recycling of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Proper disposal of lithium-ion batteries is another crucial aspect of ensuring safety during the holiday season. Tourists are advised not to dispose of used batteries in public bins, as improperly discarded batteries can cause fires. Many airports and public transport hubs now provide dedicated battery disposal units, making it easier for travellers to recycle old devices safely.

Educating Tourists on Safe Travel Practices

With an increasing number of people travelling with lithium-ion battery-powered devices, the importance of educating the public about safe practices cannot be overstated. Tourists are encouraged to share safety tips with fellow travellers, especially if gifting battery-powered devices. Reminding others to follow best practices for device charging, storage, and transport can help reduce the risk of incidents and ensure a safer travel experience for everyone.

Overview

UK Authorities advising Travellers about Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety Lithium-ion battery chargers, smartphones, laptops, and other electronics are rightfully a concern, especially when traveling during the holiday season. For everyone’s safety, travelers must still be mindful about their electronics and chargers when traveling. Following these guidelines, traveling and vacationing during this holiday season can be safe and battery incident-free.