Lithium-ion batteries cause dozens of fires annually in Estonia
An average of about 40 fires per year in Estonia are caused by lithium-ion batteries. These fires are harder to extinguish than regular ones, as batteries can reignite and require prolonged cooling in water.
According to the Estonian Rescue Board, there are on average around 40 fires annually in Estonia caused by lithium-ion batteries. The main difference from ordinary fires is that the battery can reignite even after the fire has been put out, forcing rescuers to cool the device in water for a long time and monitor its condition.
Safety expert Tuuli Taavet from the Rescue Board explained that extinguishing lithium-ion battery fires is a difficult task. Sometimes the device has to be cooled in water for days. For electric vehicles, at least seven days of cooling are required, while other devices should be kept in water for at least two to three days.
In case of a small device fire, it can be placed in water independently. However, if a more powerful device catches fire, it is necessary to call the fire department immediately. Taavet highlighted three dangers: such batteries burn extremely intensely at very high temperatures, there is a high risk of explosion, and highly toxic gases are released during combustion.
Most battery-related incidents occur at night while people are asleep, according to specialists. To reduce the risk of fire, the Rescue Board recommends not using damaged batteries, not leaving charging devices unattended, charging in a dry room at room temperature, keeping away from flammable materials, and ensuring the room has a smoke detector.
