Lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries power many items we use every day — phones, laptops, tablets, e-bikes, e-scooters, power tools and toys. If they’re not managed safely, they can cause serious fires.

Look for these labels

You might see: lithium‑ion (Li‑ion), lithium‑polymer (Li‑po), Li+, or “lithium”. These all mean the device uses a rechargeable lithium battery.

Charge and store safely 

• Never leave batteries or devices charging overnight.
• Disconnect the charger once the battery is full.
• Charge on hard surfaces like concrete or tiles. Make sure there’s nothing around it that could catch on fire.
• Charge in open areas and make sure you have working smoke alarms.
• Use the original charger that came with your device. A plug that fits might still be unsafe.
• Buy known brands with the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM). Store and charge in a cool, dry, ventilated place under 27°C.

Watch for warning signs 

• Stop using the device if the battery is damaged, hot, swelling, leaking, smoking or has a strong smell.
• Move it away from anything that  can burn and, if safe, unplug the 
  charger.
• If there’s fire, smoke, or you feel unsafe, call Triple Zero (000

Dispose of batteries safely 

• Do not put batteries (including lithium batteries) in household bins, recycling or hard waste collections.
• Use Recycle Mate or BCycle to find safe dropoff sites near you: recyclemate.com.au and bcycle.com.au.

For more fire safety tips, visit fire.nsw.gov.au.