What’s caught my eye in the news
Manchester Warehouse Fire - Lithium Batter Blaze
Record Rise in E-bike and E-scooter Fires
My Take on Lithium Battery Fires
The subject of lithium batteries linked to fire safety is going to get a lot bigger in my opinion. We often get asked “Why are there more lithium battery fires now than 15 years ago?”
Here’s what I think:
- There are simply more batteries in use now — smart phones, laptops, power tools, electric scooters, cars… you name it.
- Some are made cheaply by manufacturers cutting corners, especially unbranded or budget imports.
- Older batteries get riskier — heat, wear and tear, and degradation all raise the risk of fires.
- Bad charging habits – like charging a phone under a pillow or leaving a bike on charge in a hallway – only add to the problem.
Monthly Tip – Charger Fire Prevention
- Store devices in well-ventilated areas, away from flammable materials. For my teenage daughters, that means no charging phones on beds! For larger kit (like scooters), keep them away from living spaces or escape routes.
- Use manufacturer-approved chargers —avoid cheap knock-offs.
- Charge on non-combustible surfaces and don’t leave things charging overnight.
- Don’t overcharge. If it’s full, unplug it!
1st Attendance News
Well done to Matt Popham, who completed his FPA Fire Extinguisher Servicing Refresher course this month. Great work, mate!
Shoutout to Colin and Seth, who spent the afternoon this week servicing fire extinguishers on Flatholm Island –ducking and diving seagulls in full nesting mode. True commitment to the job!
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Let’s Keep Talking
Thanks for reading! If there’s a fire safety or first aid topic you’d like me to cover next month, just drop me a line. Please also feel free to forward this to any colleagues or safety officers who’d find it useful.
Stay safe— and alert!
Paul
