This advisory note has been issued by the AFAC Built Environment Technical Group in conjunction with the AFAC Alternate and Renewable Energy Technologies Technical Group. It presents safety considerations for fire extinguishers and fire blankets marketed for use in Australia and New Zealand for lithium-ion battery fires. 

It follows similar advisory notes issued in 2023 by Fire Protection Association Australia and CSIRO, that addresses the challenges of Lithium-ion battery fire suppression and non-compliance of fire extinguishers marketed for lithium-ion battery fires.

AFAC members are concerned by the continued introduction and sale of these fire extinguishers. Despite marketing claims regarding a product’s suitability for extinguishing lithium-ion battery fires, no Australian and/or New Zealand testing or certification currently exists to validate these claims.

Fire extinguishers are included in mandatory legislation. They must comply with AS/NZS 1841, AS/NZS 1850 and AS 2444 or NZS 4503 to be sold and installed in Australia or New Zealand. Currently, these standards do not include testing and certification for use with lithium-ion battery fires.

AFAC is aware and concerned that some fire extinguisher and fire blanket products are receiving certification for existing extinguisher classes while being promoted as suitable for lithium-ion battery fires without validation.

AFAC members have expressed concern for the safety of people using these extinguishing devices in close-proximity to a lithium-ion battery fire without adequate warnings regarding their safety and limitations, and the use of correct Personal Protective Equipment and Breathing Apparatus. This may result in significant injury or death.

A fire involving lithium-ion batteries is likely to produce significant amounts of toxic gases and may involve unpredictable explosions and jet-like flames as the battery cells are compromised. AFAC members recommend evacuating the area as quickly and safely as possible and calling 000 (Australia) or 111 (New Zealand).

What to do in an emergency

• In an emergency call 000 (Australia) or 111 (New Zealand).
• Do not touch anything that is on fire.
• If any device or battery starts to give off smoke or emit flames, call 000 (Australia) or 111 (New Zealand).
• Evacuate the area and close doors behind you. This may slow the spread of smoke and fire.
• Do not re-enter the building until the area is made safe by firefighters.
• Avoid inhaling the vented battery gases, vapour, and smoke, as it is highly toxic.
• If anyone has been exposed to spilt electrolyte, flying debris, smoke, vapours or flames, seek urgent medical assistance.
• Burns should be treated immediately with cool running water for at least 20 minutes. Burns larger than a 20-cent coin will require emergency care. Call 000 (Australia) or 111 (New Zealand) and follow the advice of the operator.

If your battery device is not on fire or smoking but does show signs of:

• pungent odours
• overheating
• significant change in colour or blistering of the casing
• swelling, leaking or changing shape
• unusual noises such as crackling or hissing.

If safe to do so, disconnect the device from the power supply and move the device outdoors, away from any combustible items. Call 000 (Australia) or 111 (New Zealand).