Fire Hazards In The Home: Charging Electrical Goods

You’ve probably heard the warning about not charging electrical products overnight, but there’s a very real reason behind it.

Electrical items can pose a fire risk when charged for long periods. Lithium-ion batteries, which are now used in most everyday devices, can heat up during charging. On average, the London Fire Brigade attend around 24 fires a week caused by faulty chargers, batteries, and cables.

There are a few key things to keep in mind when charging devices like your laptop, mobile phone, or electronic cigarette:

• Check your cables: If a charging cable breaks, replace it with a branded, tested cable. Cheap or untested cables haven’t passed safety standards and can easily start a fire. Whenever possible, buy directly from the device manufacturer.
• Avoid covering devices while charging: Don’t charge your devices under blankets, cushions, or on soft furniture. Heat can build up quickly and cause a fire.
• Don’t use plugged-in devices in bed: It might be tempting to scroll on your phone or work on your laptop while it’s charging, but it’s safer to unplug before use. Only charge devices when necessary.

The increased use of Lithium-ion batteries means we need to be extra aware of the potential hazards. It might feel like a minor risk, until it isn’t.

Be careful when charging electrical goods at home. Fires can happen to anyone, and taking simple precautions could save lives and protect your property.