Ealing Council is to run an awareness campaign to educate residents about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries following an increase in fires in the borough and across London.
In a motion brought by Ealing Liberal Democrats at last week’s (10 December 2024) full council meeting, cross party support for three actions were agreed by the Labour-run council.
- To run an awareness campaign focused on the safe disposal of batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries
- To continue to inform residents on safe practice relating to lithium-ion batteries
- To work with council tenants to, wherever possible, provide them with safe spaces for charging e-bikes and e-scooters
In Ealing, there have been at least two fires involving lithium-ion batteries this year. One at the Greenford recycling site and one in Northolt. The October 2024 Northolt fire was at a waste recycling centre where 60 tonnes of mixed household waste was damaged by the fire.
While in December 2023, there was a lithium-ion fire in flats in Maldon Road, Acton which saw 25 fire fighters attend.
Councillor Athena Zissimos spokesperson for Environment, Streets, Parks and Climate Change said: “Liberal Democrats are pleased to have achieved cross party support with Ealing Council to address the significant fire risk posed by lithium ion batteries to residents across the borough.”
Councillor Zissimos added: “Increased awareness campaigns promoting safe disposal will aim to make residents aware of the danger they pose in placing them in household rubbish and alternative disposal mechanisms. We are pleased that Ealing Council have agreed to enable Council tenants to have access to safe spaces for charging e-bikes and e-scooters.”
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said at the time of the Acton incident: “Lithium batteries store a significant amount of energy in a very small space and are much more powerful compared to other types of batteries. If that energy is released in an uncontrolled way, then a fire or explosion may result. If there is overheating, crushing, penetrating or overcharging, then a fault can occur within damaged battery cells which may cause the battery to catch fire and/or explode.”
They added: “Lithium batteries are susceptible to failure if incorrect chargers are used, so it’s important to always use the correct charger for the product and buy an official one from a reputable seller. You should also unplug your charger when you have finished using it and we would advise not to leave it unattended or charging while people are asleep. Try to ensure they are not getting knocked around while in use or while being carried as spares as this can increase the chance of damage to cells.”
