Battery-fire claims jump
There was a 17 per cent rise in lithium-ion battery related fires last year, according to data from AMI, with mishandling during charging, storage and disposal being primary causes.
Claims spanned various policy types. They included motor vehicle with 27 per cent, contents on 25 per cent, home with 23 per cent, commercial with 23 per cent, and marine and boat on two per cent.
Wayne Tippet, executive general manager of claims, says that more than 50 per cent of all battery-related fire claims pertain to when devices aren’t in use or not being actively monitored.
“Consumer safety and battery-handling education to ensure the safety of New Zealanders is vital,” adds Tippet.
“Lithium-ion batteries can be found in devices everywhere including in our pockets, so it’s important we learn how to take care of these items to ensure they don’t ignite.”
In 2024, more than 20 per cent of AMI’s lithium-ion battery-related fire claims occurred when the battery or device was charging.
“We’ve received claims for drones, e-bikes, cars and even campervans which have caught fire while being left on charge unsupervised for long periods of time.”
AMI’s claims data also reveals such fires are not limited to residential properties – there has been a surge in lithium-ion battery-related incidents that have started inside the containers of waste-collection trucks.
“Please don’t throw batteries and battery-powered devices in household waste,” says Tippet. There are collection facilities around the country for used batteries, including at most Mitre 10 and Bunnings Warehouse stores, and e-waste services or recycling services for electronics.”
Tom Ronaldson, community education manager of Fire and Emergency NZ, says while there is nothing inherently dangerous about lithium-ion batteries, they can be a hazard if damaged, mishandled or improperly disposed of.
“When lithium-ion battery fires do occur, they can happen very quickly,” he adds. “It’s important that if your battery is emitting vapour or unusual sounds, you evacuate and call 111.
“To protect your battery, always use the correct charger for the device. If your battery is damaged or hot to touch while charging, replace it with one from the manufacturer. Always avoid charging devices on soft surfaces or leaving them plugged in for extended periods.”
Top tips for electric vehicles
• When possible, EVs, e-bikes and e-scooters should be stored and charged outside of the house in a garage, shed or carport – and away from living spaces. Don’t leave them near exit doors, escape routes and combustible materials.
• Only use charging adaptors supplied by the vehicle manufacturer or an electric-vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) manufacturer.
• Don’t use any household adaptor, such as a multi-box, double plug or travel plug, between EVSE, such as an in-cord control and protection device (IC-CPD) and a socket outlet.
• Never use damaged or modified charging equipment, such as overseas equipment fitted with a Kiwi plug.
• Don’t use any faulty charging equipment – get it checked by the manufacturer.
Lithium-ion battery devices
• Only use the charger that’s specifically designed for the battery in your device.
• When charging household items, such as laptops, gaming consoles or mobile devices, don’t place them on soft surfaces. Charge them while awake, unplugging them before going to bed.
• Don’t overcharge the battery by leaving it unattended for a prolonged period.
• Keep an eye on the battery while it’s in use and remove it immediately if it starts to feel hot.
• Avoid exposing lithium-ion batteries to extreme temperatures, and do not puncture, crush or otherwise damage the casing.
• Do not dispose of batteries in household waste. You can contact your council for a recycling location. Most Mitre10 and Bunnings Warehouse stores, e-waste services or recycling services for electronics have collections.
