[svccridesupdate] Charging of Lithium-Ion rechargeable batteries
The use of lithium-Ion batteries to power small, medium and large devices and equipment has been around for many years now and helps us all in our daily lives. However, as more and more power is demanded from these batteries so has there been an increase in fires caused when they are being re-charged.
You will no doubt have heard recently about the fire in a Bristol block of flats where an individual tragically lost his life.
The Fire and Rescue service concluded that the fire was caused as a result of charging an e-bicycle battery in the flat which subsequently caught fire when the battery went into thermal overload creating intense heat, flames and poisonous thick smoke. The was not an isolated incident and it has been reported that there have been many similar incidents over many years. The fires where not restricted e-bikes but includes e-scooters, mobile phones, lighting and many other large an d small devices, some of which are seriously defective from new.
My message is to highlight the inherent dangers of recharging any device which is powered by a lithium-ion battery. They should not be left unsupervised at any time, especially at night and especially in living and sleeping areas.
Malcolm
Chairman, Stroud Valleys Cycling Club
Further information is available on the internet and here are just a couple of reports