Lithium‑ion batteries do not spontaneously burst into flames under normal conditions, but they can catch fire if they are damaged, improperly charged, exposed to extreme heat, or experience an internal failure. These events are rare, but they do happen — and when they do, they tend to make the news because lithium‑ion fires burn very hot and can be difficult to extinguish.
Here’s a clear, helpful explanation of what’s known about real‑world incidents involving lithium‑ion power‑tool batteries.
Do Lithium‑Ion Batteries Catch Fire?
Lithium‑ion batteries are generally very safe. Millions are used every day in power tools, phones, laptops, and electric vehicles without any issues. However, when a lithium‑ion cell is damaged or overheats, it can enter a state called thermal runaway, where the battery becomes too hot to cool itself. This can lead to smoke, sparks, or fire.
The most common causes of lithium‑ion battery fires include:
- Physical damage (drops, crushing, punctures)
- Using non‑approved chargers
- Overcharging or overheating
- Manufacturing defects
- Storing batteries in hot environments
- Internal short circuits
These failures are uncommon, but they are possible — which is why safe handling and storage matter.
Have There Been Real Incidents?
Yes, there have been documented cases of lithium‑ion power‑tool batteries catching fire. These incidents are usually linked to improper charging, battery damage, or poor storage conditions.
Here are a few examples summarized in a general, non‑copyrighted way:
- Workshop Fire Caused by Charging Power‑Tool Batteries
Fire departments in several countries have reported garage or workshop fires that began while lithium‑ion tool batteries were charging. In many cases, the battery was left on a charger overnight or was plugged into a non‑approved charger.
- Construction Site Fire Linked to Damaged Battery Pack
There have been incidents where a battery pack was dropped from height, cracked internally, and later ignited when used again. Damage inside the battery can cause short circuits that lead to overheating.
- Transport‑Related Fires
Some shipping and airline safety reports mention lithium‑ion tool batteries overheating during transport, especially when packed with metal tools that could short the terminals.
- Improper Storage in Hot Vehicles
Fire services in Australia and the USA have warned that leaving lithium‑ion batteries inside hot vehicles can increase the risk of failure. High heat accelerates chemical reactions inside the cells.
- Counterfeit or Low‑Quality Batteries
A number of incidents involve non‑genuine replacement batteries purchased online. These often lack proper safety circuits and can overheat or fail during charging.
These examples show that lithium‑ion fires are usually preventable with proper care.
How to Reduce the Risk
You can dramatically reduce the chance of a lithium‑ion battery fire by following simple safety practices:
- Use only brand‑approved chargers
- Do not leave batteries charging unattended for long periods
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place
- Keep batteries away from direct sunlight or hot vehicles
- Inspect batteries regularly for swelling, cracks, or unusual heat
- Avoid using damaged or counterfeit batteries
- Transport batteries in protective cases, not loose in tool bags
Handled correctly, lithium‑ion batteries are extremely reliable.
According to QBE :
Please read
QBE’s recommendations for managing lithium-ion batteries as a business:
Buy certified devices from reputable suppliers only.
Inspect batteries regularly for swelling, dents, or damage—dispose of damaged ones safely via professionals.
Store batteries safely in non-combustible, ventilated areas with proper spacing.
Use approved chargers and charge only during business hours.
Keep ignition sources away from charging or recently used batteries.
Avoid extreme conditions like heat, cold, moisture, or stacking heavy items on batteries.
In case of fire or overheating, evacuate immediately and call emergency services—do not use fire extinguishers.
Use infrared (IR) thermography to monitor for temperature spikes indicating battery issues and triggering an emergency response.
Have an emergency response plan in place and train all staff before allowing batteries on-site.
Recycle responsibly—never open, incinerate, or destroy batteries. Take batteries to certified recycling points or hazardous waste collection centres.
Next Recommended Reading
Source & Important further reading
Fire Statistics Resources – Lithium-ion Battery Fires: Alarming Statistics and Trends – Explains thermal runaway and overheating risks relevant to power‑tool batteries.
EPRI Battery Failure Incident Database (USA & Asia) – Tracks global lithium‑ion failures, including manufacturing defects, transport failures, and storage‑related fires.
