Poor quality batteries lead to an increasing number of fires | ITV News
Firefighters in Hampshire have responded to an increasing number of fires caused by poor quality batteries. ITV News Meridian
www.itv.comHere’s the latest I can share based on recent public reports:
Answer to core query
- UK lithium-ion battery-related fires were reported at about 1,760 incidents in 2025, according to Freedom of Information responses compiled by insurer QBE, Roughly 4.8 fires per day, and the count marked a substantial rise versus previous years. This figure is echoed by multiple outlets referencing the same FOI dataset. [cite ][cite ][cite ]
Key takeaways
- Distribution: The majority of incidents occurred in or near homes; there are ongoing concerns about improper disposal contributing to fires in waste streams and at recycling facilities. [cite ][cite ]
- Trend: Fires linked to lithium-ion batteries have surged over the past few years, with year-on-year increases reported in several regions and services, including London and other major brigades. [cite ][cite ]
- Context: The issue is often linked to consumer devices (phones, e-bikes, scooters, power tools) and vehicle/e-bike battery packs; safety responses stress proper charging practices and safe disposal. [cite ][cite ]
What sources say
- A UK press summary highlighted 1,760 lithium-ion battery fires in 2025, equating to roughly one fire every five hours, with costs and injuries noted in related analyses. [cite ]
- FOI-based analyses from QBE indicate a continued rise across the UK, with London fire services reporting a disproportionately high share of incidents in recent years. [cite ][cite ]
- Separate safety alerts and industry reports have called for tighter regulation and better public education around battery safety and disposal. [cite ][cite ]
Caveats
- FOI responses cover a subset of fire brigades and may not capture every jurisdiction uniformly; figures are best interpreted as indicative of a rising trend rather than a precise nationwide total. [cite ][cite ]
- Some outlets consolidate data differently or rely on interim reports; cross-checking multiple sources helps confirm the overall trajectory. [cite ][cite ]
Would you like me to pull the most recent official summary from the UK fire services or health/safety regulators, and present a brief chart of fires by year or by region? I can also provide a concise set of safety recommendations for households and businesses based on these trends.