 batteries have emerged as a popular choice due to their high energy density, flexible form factor, and fast-charging capabilities.)
Lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries power drones, smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles, but if mishandled, they can catch fire or even explode. Many users don’t know how to safely put out a LiPo battery fire, increasing the risk of property damage and injury.
To safely extinguish a LiPo battery fire, you should use a Class D fire extinguisher, move the battery to a fireproof area, and prevent reignition. This guide explains the correct steps to handle a LiPo battery fire effectively.
Table of Contents
- Why Do LiPo Batteries Catch Fire?
- Signs of a Failing LiPo Battery
- Immediate Steps to Take When a LiPo Battery Catches Fire
- Best Fire Extinguishers for LiPo Battery Fires
- Cooling Down a Burning LiPo Battery
- Preventing Reignition
- What to Do After a LiPo Battery Fire?
- Conclusion
Why Do LiPo Batteries Catch Fire?
A LiPo battery fire is usually caused by thermal runaway, a chain reaction that rapidly increases temperature and pressure inside the battery, leading to fire or explosion.
Common Causes of LiPo Battery Fires:
1️⃣ Overcharging – Charging beyond 4.2V per cell causes overheating.
2️⃣ Over-discharging – Discharging below 3.0V per cell damages the battery, leading to instability.
3️⃣ Short circuits – Damaged or punctured batteries cause internal short circuits.
4️⃣ Physical damage – Drops, punctures, or impacts weaken internal components.
5️⃣ Heat exposure – Storing batteries in direct sunlight or near heat sources increases fire risk.
⚠ Fact: Once a LiPo battery enters thermal runaway, it cannot be stopped, only contained.
Signs of a Failing LiPo Battery
🔥 Early Warning Signs:
✔ Swelling or puffing – Indicates gas buildup, a sign of internal failure.
✔ Hissing or popping noises – Electrolyte decomposition before ignition.
✔ Excessive heat – If the battery feels unusually hot during use or charging.
✔ Smoke or strange odors – A sign of electrolyte burning.
🚨 If you notice these warning signs, act immediately to prevent a fire!
Immediate Steps to Take When a LiPo Battery Catches Fire
🚨 Follow these steps IMMEDIATELY if a LiPo battery catches fire:
Step 1: Evacuate the Area
- 🔹 Alert everyone nearby and clear the area to prevent injuries.
- 🔹 Avoid breathing in toxic smoke released by burning LiPo batteries.
Step 2: Place the Battery in a Fireproof Area
- 🔹 If safe, use metal tongs or a non-flammable tool to move the burning battery to a fire-resistant surface like:
- A concrete floor
- A metal container filled with sand
- A LiPo-safe fireproof bag
Step 3: Do NOT Use Water!
❌ Water can make a LiPo battery fire worse!
- Water can react with lithium compounds and cause explosions.
🚨 Use only recommended fire extinguishers or containment methods.
Best Fire Extinguishers for LiPo Battery Fires
🧯 Use the RIGHT fire extinguisher to put out a LiPo battery fire:
| Extinguisher Type | Effective? | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Class D (Metal Fire) | ✅ Best Choice | Designed for lithium metal fires |
| Dry Sand or Dirt | ✅ Good | Smothers fire and absorbs heat |
| Lith-X (Specialized Powder) | ✅ Recommended | Prevents reignition by cooling |
| CO₂ Extinguisher | ❌ Not Effective | Cannot cool down the battery |
| Water | ❌ DANGEROUS! | Causes violent lithium reaction |
🚀 Pro Tip: Always keep a Class D extinguisher or sand bucket near LiPo battery storage areas.
Cooling Down a Burning LiPo Battery
Once the fire is extinguished, the battery remains hot and could reignite.
🔹 Cooling Methods:
✔ Cover with dry sand or dirt to contain heat.
✔ If safe, place the battery in a metal container outdoors until it cools.
✔ Monitor for at least 30 minutes to ensure it doesn’t reignite.
⚠ Never place a smoldering battery in a trash bin! It could reignite and cause a larger fire.
Preventing Reignition
A LiPo battery fire can reignite hours later if not handled properly.
🔥 Steps to Prevent Reignition:
1️⃣ Keep the battery isolated – Store in a metal container with sand.
2️⃣ Do NOT puncture or break the battery – Damaged cells can reignite.
3️⃣ Monitor the area for lingering heat – Check for smoke or unusual odors.
4️⃣ Dispose of the battery safely – Take it to a hazardous waste recycling center.
What to Do After a LiPo Battery Fire?
After the fire is contained:
✔ Ventilate the area – LiPo battery smoke contains toxic fumes.
✔ Wear gloves & mask – Avoid touching burned battery debris.
✔ Clean with non-flammable materials – Use baking soda or dry sand to neutralize residue.
✔ Dispose of battery safely – NEVER throw it in regular trash!
🚨 Contact a hazardous waste disposal center for proper battery disposal.
Conclusion
Lithium polymer battery fires are dangerous but manageable if handled correctly. Always prioritize safety by using the right extinguisher, cooling the battery, and preventing reignition.
✅ Key Takeaways:
- DO NOT use water on a LiPo battery fire.
- Use a Class D extinguisher, sand, or Lith-X powder.
- Move the battery to a fireproof location if safe.
- Monitor for 30+ minutes to prevent reignition.
- Dispose of the burned battery at a hazardous waste center.
⚠ Prevent fires before they happen! Store LiPo batteries in fireproof bags and follow proper charging guidelines.
🚀 Need high-quality, safe LiPo batteries for your business? Contact us for custom battery solutions!
