Battery shock prompts warning

Alfred Health burns surgeon Dane Holden said specialists had recently treated four patients with severe burns as a result of exploding lithium batteries within a 10-day period.

“Lithium batteries are found in most household products like laptops, power tools, many children’s toys, vapes and even e-scooters,” Dr Holden said.

“We’re seeing a sharp increase in burns associated with these batteries and in many cases they’re quite severe.

“One patient we had recently had a vape device in his pocket… he felt it getting hot and as he went to take it out, it exploded, leaving him with third degree burns and requiring multiple skin grafts.

“Even a small, seemingly innocuous device can cause quite a severe injury.”

Lithium iron batteries contain electrolytes that are highly flammable and can become a hazard once they’re dropped or cracked.

Delia Rickard from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said a few basic precautions can help avoid danger.

“Always buy from a reputable manufacturer and only use the charging chord that comes with the product,” Ms Rickard said.

“Don’t over-charge your batteries, have them checked every 12 months for damage and leave them in a cool, dry place.”