A year-on-year rise in MFS callouts sparked by lithium-ion batteries has prompted a new safety campaign, outlining steps to minimise risk and identify warning signs.

Lithium-ion batteries – commonly found in household products – are used in rechargeable devices such as mobile phones, e-scooters and other mobility devices, appliances, power tools and toys.

From 2019-2023, related incidents increased by 650 per cent – from four to 30 – with the MFS projecting this year’s figure to climb to nearly 40 callouts if the current trend continues.

Of the 13 callouts so far in 2024, the most common cause of fires are mobility devices (six incidents), portable batteries (two incidents) and tools (two incidents).

The batteries pose a safety risk if not stored, used or disposed of properly, with the potential for reignition and fires releasing toxic gas.

South Australians can help prevent incidents by:

• Storing lithium-ion batteries in cool, dry places out of sunlight.
• Disconnecting products as soon as they are fully charged.
• Charging batteries on non-combustible surfaces.
• Using compatible chargers and avoiding mixing and matching brands.
• Always purchasing replacement batteries and charging equipment from reputable suppliers or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Regularly checking the batteries for signs of damage including cracking, denting, swelling and leaking, as well as heating up or emitting smoke.
• Not building their own batteries.
• Safely disposing of any damaged or used batteries at a battery recycling drop-off point by contacting your local council.
• Having a working smoke alarm in rooms where batteries are stored.