Lithium-ion batteries can be found in almost every household today. Smartphones, laptops, cordless screwdrivers, e-bikes and household appliances - they are all powered by high-performance rechargeable batteries. But although they are efficient and long-lasting, they also pose risks. Incorrect handling, improper storage or faulty batteries can lead to fires or explosions.
How can you safely use, store and charge rechargeable batteries in the home? In this article, you will learn practical safety tips for the daily handling of rechargeable batteries to avoid dangers and extend the service life of the batteries.
Table of contents
Why is battery safety so important?
A battery stores a large amount of energy in a small space. If it is damaged or incorrectly charged, a short circuit or overheating can occur. In some cases, this leads to a thermal runaway - an uncontrolled chemical chain reaction inside the battery that can result in a fire or explosion.
The most common causes of battery fires are
- Overcharging or deep discharge due to incorrect charging behavior
- Mechanical damage due to falls or impacts
- Heat or direct sunlight that make the battery unstable
- Incorrect storage or contact with moisture
However, these risks can be minimized with simple security measures in everyday life.
1. charging batteries correctly - what you should bear in mind
Errors when charging batteries are one of the most common causes of fires. To ensure that your battery is charged safely, you should observe the following points:
- Only use original chargers: Inexpensive or non-certified chargers can lead to overcharging or overheating.
- Do not charge batteries unattended: A battery should never be charged overnight or without supervision. If a problem occurs, you can react quickly.
- Do not charge batteries in closed rooms: A charger or battery should not be operated in cupboards, under cushions or on upholstered furniture - it needs air circulation.
- Do not charge in direct sunlight: High temperatures can destabilize the cells and lead to ignition.
- Use a fire blanket for additional safety: Fire blankets for batteries offer additional protection if a battery ignites during the charging process.
2. store batteries safely - avoid these mistakes
Batteries should always be stored in a cool, dry place. Ideal storage temperatures are between 10 and 20 °C.
How to store batteries correctly:
- Never store batteries near flammable materials (e.g. paper or textiles).
- Avoid direct sunlight and high temperatures.
- Do not store batteries on metal surfaces or damp surfaces.
- If the batteries are not used for a longer period of time, store them at 30-60% charge to avoid deep discharge.
- Store defective batteries separately and dispose of them safely.
Safety measure: A fire blanket can be used as a protective barrier to minimize the risk of fire.
3. recognize defective or old batteries and dispose of them correctly
A damaged battery represents an enormous danger and should no longer be used. Look out for the following warning signs:
- Bloated or deformed battery
- Excessive heat generation during charging or discharging
- Cracks, breakages or leaking liquids
- Automatic switch-off of the device or reduced battery life
How to dispose of batteries safely:
- Never dispose of rechargeable batteries in household waste! They contain toxic substances and can cause fires.
- Use collection points for used batteries in electrical stores or recycling centers.
- Store defective batteries in a fireproof box or a special Fire blanket for batteries until they can be disposed of.
Further information on safe battery disposal can be found on the page of the Stiftung Elektro-Altgeräte Register (EAR).
4. first aid for battery fires - how to react correctly
If a battery starts to smoke or catches fire, you need to act quickly. Normal extinguishing methods such as water are not suitable here!
What to do in the event of a battery fire?
- Disconnect the appliance from the power supply immediately (if safely possible).
- Move the battery to a safe place if it can still be transported.
- Call the fire department if the fire spreads or cannot be controlled.
- Do not extinguish with water - instead use a special extinguishing agent or a fire blanket instead.
fire blankets help to insulate the flames, reduce the heat and protect the surroundings from damage.
5. safety in everyday life - how to avoid battery fires
- Never charge batteries unattended
- Do not leave devices and batteries on the charger overnight
- Use original chargers and batteries
- Do not expose batteries to direct sunlight or high humidity
- Remove defective batteries from circulation immediately and dispose of them safely
- Havefire blankets ready for emergencies
These measures can significantly reduce the risk of battery fires in the home.
Conclusion: Use batteries safely and avoid dangers
Rechargeable batteries are practical, but also dangerous if they are used or stored incorrectly. With a few simple measures, every household can increase safety when handling lithium-ion batteries.
The most important safety rules summarized:
- Charge correctly: Only with the original charger, not unattended and not on flammable materials.
- Store safely: Cool, dry and out of direct sunlight.
- Recognizing and disposing of defective batteries: Check for damage and use safe disposal.
- usefire blankets : Additional protection to contain battery fires.
With these simple safety measures for everyday use, you can ensure that batteries are used safely - without the risk of fire or accidents.
Learn more
Find out more about the safe handling of batteries and fire protection measures:
