The items most commonly linked to lithium-ion battery fires in the UK have been identified in new analysis from insurer QBE European Operations.
Based on Freedom of Information responses from 42 of 49 UK fire services, the data shows incidents involving lithium-ion batteries have risen sharply since 2022, with fire crews now attending around 4.8 fires a day in 2025, a rise of 147% since 2022.
The findings come as fire safety and UK building regulations continue to adapt to the growing use of electrical systems in homes, particularly around charging infrastructure and energy use.
We reveal the items that are most linked to lithium-ion battery fires so you can stay aware of their potential danger.
E-bikes most frequently linked to incidents
E-bikes are the single most commonly recorded item linked to lithium-ion battery fires, accounting for around 520 incidents in 2025 alone – more than triple the figure recorded in 2022.
QBE’s analysis suggests many of these incidents occur during charging or when battery packs have been damaged or modified.
Fire services have also previously noted that converted or poorly fitted e-bikes appear more frequently in incident reports than certified models.
EV chargers and electric vehicles
Electric vehicles and home charging systems are also increasingly appearing in fire service data.
QBE reports a 133% rise in EV-related fire incidents between 2022 and 2025, alongside rapid growth in electric vehicle ownership across the UK.
The increase in EV-related incidents has come as new UK electrical standards for home charge points introduce stricter installation requirements, including dedicated circuits and improved electrical protection.
Phones, laptops and everyday rechargeable devices
A wide range of everyday household electronics also feature regularly in fire service reports, including mobile phones, laptops, power tools and portable chargers.
QBE’s analysis suggests these smaller devices are often involved during charging or when batteries are damaged, overused or left connected for extended periods.
Their widespread use means multiple devices are often charging in homes at the same time, increasing risk exposure.
Items to help prevent lithium-ion battery fires
High-capacity fireproof storage bag designed for safe charging, transport and storage of lithium batteries, offering strong heat and explosion resistance for added home safety.
Durable fire-resistant storage box for lithium batteries and valuables, combining waterproof protection with reinforced safety design for charging and transport security.
Compact fireproof pouch designed to reduce risk during lithium battery charging and storage, helping contain heat and protect surrounding surfaces in case of failure.
Solar PV systems and battery storage
Solar PV systems also appear in fire service data, although at a much lower frequency compared with other household items linked to lithium-ion battery fires. Analysis referenced by QBE shows solar-related fires rising from 107 incidents in 2022 to 171 in 2024.
Alongside solar panels, home battery storage systems (solar batteries and other domestic energy storage units) are increasingly relevant as more households install renewable energy systems.
These units are separate from the solar panels themselves and are used to store electricity for later use, typically in garages, utility rooms or loft spaces. While incident numbers remain relatively low, they are becoming a growing category in fire service reports as home energy systems become more common.
Most incidents in this area are linked not to the solar panels themselves, but to associated electrical components such as inverters, wiring or installation issues.
The analysis highlights a clear pattern in UK fire service data, with lithium-ion battery fires most commonly linked to a small group of modern household items – particularly e-bikes, EV systems, everyday electronics and solar installations.
As these technologies become more widespread in homes, they are appearing more frequently in fire incident reports, reflecting the growing role of rechargeable and electrified systems in everyday domestic life.
As Adrian Simmonds, Risk Manager at QBE European Operations, said: “Awareness of safe charging, storage and disposal is essential to keeping people and property safe.”
