Hampshire firefighters issue battery warning
They say there's been a sharp increase in fire caused by lithium-ion batteries
Last updated 23rd Nov 2025
Lithium-ion battery fires are on the rise across Hampshire with firefighters asking people to make sure they only buy and use safe electronic products this festive season.
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries found in electric bikes, scooters, cars, laptops, tablets, mobile phones and other common household devices.
The safety of these lithium-ion products depends on how they are manufactured, used, charged, stored and recycled.
From 1st April 2024 until 31st March 2025 the fire service recorded 156 battery related blazes in our area, an increase of 64 from the previous 12-month period, and an increase of 80 the year prior to that.
In recent weeks Hampshire crews have dealt with fires involving a child’s electric vehicle in Aldershot and an e-bike battery blaze in Fleet.
Safe
HIWFRS’ Prevention Manager, Tracey Webb said:
“At this time of year, we know lots of you across Hampshire and Isle of Wight will be out searching for the best gifts to give to your loved ones – we want to ensure those gifts are safe and don’t present a fire risk.
“When buying electrical products such as phones, tablets, e-scooters and other lithium-ion battery devices, we ask that you only do so from reputable retailers, ensuring they meet UK Safety Standards.
“Use the charger your product came with, don’t overload sockets and never leave them plugged in overnight or unattended.”
Advice
Buy from reputable retailers.
Ensure the product is certified by checking is a UKCA or CE symbol.
Register products online to be informed of product recalls.
Use the charger your device came with, or purchase a replacement designed for the product from the same manufacturer.