The Hidden Threat of Lithium Ion Fires
By John Andres, FlameDetector.com
Lithium-ion batteries power our modern lives, from smartphones and laptops to e-bikes, electric scooters, and home energy storage systems. These compact, high-density power sources are now fixtures in our homes, particularly in garages where devices are charged and stored. But this convenience comes with a hidden danger: lithium-ion fires, which are fast, toxic, and increasingly common. In 2023, New York City reported over 250 fires linked to e-bikes and scooters, many in multi-family dwellings. The Fire Department of New York noted a 53% spike in lithium-ion battery fires in residential settings in early 2025 compared to 2024. Globally, these incidents have surged fivefold with similar trends in cities like New York and Surrey. Even recycling facilities face risks, with over 5,000 annual fires, many tied to discarded batteries.
Rethinking Fire Risk in the Age of Micro-Mobility
The proliferation of lithium-ion batteries has quietly reshaped the fire risk landscape. From e-bikes parked in apartment hallways to energy storage systems in garages, these devices are embedded in daily life, yet traditional fire protection strategies designed for conventional ignition scenarios are struggling to keep pace. Garages, often cluttered with flammable items like gasoline, paint, or tools, are particularly […]











