From shiny new power tools to e-scooters, drones and gaming controllers, Father’s Day was once again packed with tech gifts.
But experts are warning these popular presents should be handled with care.
Many of these high-powered gadgets are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which are linked to more than $16.1 million of fire damage in homes across the country in 2024, new data from insurer Allianz Australia revealed.
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“While these devices are exciting and make great gifts, they also come with serious fire risks if not charged or stored properly,” emerging risks manager Chris Wood said.
Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, compact and can store more energy than traditional batteries, making them a common power source in modern devices.
If damaged, faulty or charged the wrong way, lithium-ion batteries can go into what’s known as thermal runaway, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said.
This is when the battery’s internal temperature keeps rising, causing it to overheat. The battery can catch fire, explode, release toxic and flammable gases, and even reignite after the flames are out.
A lithium-ion battery explodes. Credit: Qld Fire Department According to the data, power and garden tools accounted for the largest share of battery-related fire claims, at 38 percent, followed by standalone battery cells with 32 percent.
Drones, gaming controllers and headphones accounted for 8 per cent of claims, while e-scooters contributed a further 11 per cent.
“If gifts are second-hand, families should be mindful of the product’s history, as Dad’s new gift might have been previously dropped or damaged, which carries a higher fire risk,” Wood said.
“But most importantly, never leave devices charging overnight and always keep an eye on them while they’re plugged in.”
Investigators say a fatal blaze started due to an incompatible charger powering an e-bike battery. Credit: AAP Authorities have issued an urgent safety warnings after a spate of lithium-ion battery fires. Credit: AAP Power and garden tools accounted with 38 per cent for the largest share of battery-related fire claims. E-scooters contributed 11 per cent. Credit: Qld Fire Department To reduce fire risks, Allianz recommends the following precautions when charging lithium-ion battery devices:
Always use the correct charging cable designed for the specific device Place the device in a safe area, away from flammable materials such as bedding, clothing or curtains Avoid charging devices in rooms without smoke detectors for early warning in case something goes wrong Ensure devices are attended or in-sight while they are charging — never leave them charging unsupervised Avoid charging devices while sleeping, even if the setup seems secure Disconnect or stop charging once the device is fully charged to prevent overheating or battery stress Damage should be at the forefront of consumers’ minds, Wood warned.
Lithium-ion batteries, especially those used in power tools, are susceptible to damage.
If a battery is knocked or dropped, it should be handled with care and monitored closely.
Australians were expected to spend more than $720 million on Father’s Day gifts this year.