A NSW Coroners Court inquest will investigate deaths and serious fires caused by Lithium-ion batteries in the wake of a spike in incidents causing approximately five fires in NSW per week.<\/p>\n
In the past year, more than 275 Lithium-ion battery fires were reported, resulting in 26 injuries and 876 home and workplace evacuations.<\/p>\n
As reported, recent fires in the Ballina Shire and other locations in the region have renewed council calls for more responsible disposal of the batteries.<\/p>\n
State Coroner Teresa O’Sullivan said her role was to investigate sudden and unexplained deaths, fires, and explosions and recommend changes that could stop tragic mistakes from being repeated.<\/p>\n
“We have seen a recent trend of fires caused by items containing Lithium-ion batteries, including e-bikes and e-scooters. Sadly, these fires have resulted in lives being lost,” O’Sullivan said.<\/p>\n
Key advice to prevent lithium-ion battery fires includes not sleeping or leaving home with devices charging or leaving them constantly on charge.<\/p>\n
Consumers are reminded of the dangers of incorrect disposal and encouraged to contact their local, approved recycling centre for advice. Storing batteries and devices in a cool, dry area away from combustible materials, checking smoke alarms, and confirming the home evacuation plan in the event of fire are also recommended.<\/p>\n
“At this time of year, when people are buying Christmas gifts for their loved ones, I would urge everyone to follow the safety advice on Lithium-ion batteries.<\/p>\n
“Make sure you only buy products that comply with the Australian standard. Use an approved charger, charge while you’re at home and awake, and unplug when the battery is full.<\/p>\n
“Store lithium battery devices away from exits and sleeping areas so you have time to escape if a fire does start.<\/p>\n
“Know the signs to look out for. If a strange odour, vapour, smoke, or sound comes from a lithium battery-powered device, get out and call triple zero.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A NSW Coroners Court inquest will investigate deaths and serious fires caused by Lithium-ion batteries in the wake of a spike in incidents causing approximately five fires in NSW per week. In the past year, more than 275 Lithium-ion battery fires were reported, resulting in 26 injuries and 876 home and workplace evacuations. As reported, […]<\/p>\n