Lithium-ion batteries are in almost everything we use — phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes and scooters. They’re light, powerful and rechargeable, but when they’re damaged, poorly made or mistreated they can overheat, catch fire or even explode. The good news: a handful of simple habits dramatically reduce the risk. Here’s how to store, handle, charge and dispose of your batteries safely.
Why lithium batteries can be dangerous
Lithium-ion batteries are packed with energy in a very small space, and they contain a flammable liquid electrolyte. If a cell is damaged, overheated or overcharged it can enter thermal runaway — a rapid, self-feeding reaction that produces intense heat, toxic gases and a fire that is extremely hard to put out and can reignite hours later. Fire services across Australia now rank these batteries among the fastest-growing causes of house fires.
The warning signs of a failing battery are worth memorising: swelling or bulging, unusual heat, hissing or crackling sounds, a strong chemical smell, leaking fluid, or smoke. If you notice any of these, stop using the device immediately.
How to store your batteries
- Keep batteries in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources like heaters, stoves and hot cars.
- Store on a hard, non-flammable surface — not on beds, lounges or piles of paper.
- Keep loose batteries in their original packaging or a plastic case so the terminals can’t touch metal objects like keys or coins.
- For long-term storage, leave them at around 40–60% charge and check on them from time to time.
- Keep batteries — especially small button batteries — well out of reach of children and pets.
How to handle your batteries
- Handle gently. Avoid dropping, crushing or puncturing batteries.
- Inspect regularly for swelling, dents, leaks or damage, and retire any battery that looks or feels wrong.
- Never try to open, modify or repair a battery yourself.
- Don’t mix old and new batteries, or different brands and types, in the same device.
- Keep batteries away from water and moisture during normal use and storage.
How to charge safely
- Use only the charger and cable supplied with the device, or a manufacturer-approved equivalent. Don’t mix and match chargers.
- Charge on a hard, non-flammable surface such as tile or concrete — never on beds, sofas or carpet.
- Stay home and awake while charging where you can, and unplug once fully charged. Avoid charging overnight or while you’re out.
- Don’t charge near exits or escape routes, and don’t cover the device or block its airflow.
- Let a battery cool down before recharging it after heavy use, and never charge a warm, wet or damaged battery.
- Buy from reputable sellers and look for a recognised safety approval mark on the product.
How to dispose of and recycle batteries
Never put lithium batteries in your household rubbish or kerbside recycling bin — they cause fires in bins and waste trucks. Instead, tape over the terminals and drop them at a dedicated battery recycling point. Australia’s official scheme, B-cycle, has thousands of free drop-off locations at major retailers.
⚠ In an emergency
If a battery overheats, hisses, swells or catches fire, the first thing to do — if it is safe to reach — is to submerge the battery in water to cool it and stop it reigniting, keeping it fully immersed. If you can’t safely do that, get away, move it outside away from anything flammable if possible, and evacuate. A lithium fire can reignite, so never assume it’s out. If there is any fire or danger, call 000.
Where to find trusted safety information
For the most accurate and up-to-date guidance, we recommend these official Australian sources:
Looking after your batteries doesn’t take much — store them cool, charge them carefully, check them often and recycle them properly. If you’re ever unsure about a battery or charger, get in touch with the FXB Australia team and we’ll help you find the right, safe option.
