Tips you need to prevent and survive lithium fires

According to Fidelity SecureFire, installing alternative power solutions in homes has become increasingly popular in SA as homeowners seek to secure a consistent electricity supply.

Lithium-ion batteries are an excellent fit for inverters because of their high voltage and long lifespan.

Fidelity SecureFire, a branch of Fidelity Services Group, has made significant progress in revolutionising fire response services in SA since its launch in August 2023.

A peculiar ‘own first responder’ model has responded to 270 incidents.

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According to Wahl Bartmann, the CEO of Fidelity Services Group, the team responds to an average of 11 instances weekly just in Gauteng.

Most callouts are related to structural, veld, electrical, vehicle, and lithium battery fires.

According to Bartmann, there is a 15-minute window in which first and second responders typically respond.

“It is crucial homeowners understand the potential risk of fire that comes with lithium batteries and how difficult they are to control.

“Water or other traditional measures cannot contain such a fire. Lithium-ion fires don’t burn cleanly and can vent toxic gases into the surrounding area.

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“If you installed an inverter at home, we ask that you investigate whether your fire protection measures are adequate and suitable for lithium fires.

“Importantly, these require a lithium fire extinguisher. Put it close to your inverter or battery bank,” said Bartmann.

As a fire in your house could occur at any time, take precautions to limit excessive damage or loss. Fidelity SecureFire created a fire safety checklist to help you find vulnerable points in your house.

Use the fire prevention checklist below to ensure your house and loved ones are safe from fire threats:

• Smoke alarms: Installing smoke detectors in the main rooms of your house, including the garage, kitchen,

lounge, bedrooms and where you have much electronic equipment that needs recharging, is an excellent idea. It is vital to ensure they are interconnected so all the alarms go off if there is a fire. Test the smoke detector batteries monthly and replace them annually, like any equipment, Bartmann says.

• Fire extinguishers: Ideally, one should have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and garage. Also, consider adding a fire blanket with the extinguisher in the kitchen. All household members must learn to use the extinguisher. Check it annually.

• Electrical safety: Prevention is better than cure, so to avoid a fire hazard, ensure all electrical cords and plugs are in good condition without frays or damage. Do not overload electrical outlets with too many plugs. If possible, avoid putting extension cords under carpets and rugs. Also, remember to unplug appliances when not in use and repair or replace any damaged electrical appliances.

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• Heating appliances: Heaters should be at least one meter away from flammable materials, like curtains, furniture, or bedding. If you have a fireplace, inspect the chimney and vents and clean them annually.

• Kitchen safety: Ensure your stove and oven are free from grease buildup, and keep all flammable items like dish towels and oven mitts away from the stove while cooking. Small appliances like toasters and air fryers should be unplugged when not in use, and do not keep gas cylinders on your gas stove when not in use.

• Candles and open flames: With winter around the corner, be especially aware of candles and ensure they are placed on sturdy holders and kept far away from curtains, bedding, and other flammable materials. Remember to extinguish them before going to bed.

Finally, ensure you and your family have an escape route in case of a fire.

“You should have at least two ways to exit a room in your home in case of a fire and ensure you have a safety door.

“Leave the door keys in a predetermined centralised spot. “Having a trial run twice yearly to practice your evacuation is not a bad idea,” said Bartmann.

Last, remember to save all emergency contact numbers on family members’ cellphones or in a fireproof safe, and, if you have a landline, next to the home phone.

“The golden rule is to be prepared for any eventuality, and if you have a plan, your chances of surviving a fire are much greater,” Bartmann said.