Lithium Batteries Safety Advice

Some of our mobility scooters are fitted with lithium batteries. This makes them lighter, last longer and go further between charges than traditional lead-acid batteries.

However, compared to traditional batteries, greater care and precision must be applied to charging lithium batteries.

They can become dangerously unstable at the end of their useful life, if charged improperly, or if their battery management system fails. This can lead to very intense, hard-to-extinguish fires and/or explosions.

Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions with regard to safe use, charging, transport, and recycling of batteries.

The key points are:

Charging:

  • Only use the provided charger and avoid using aftermarket or incompatible chargers.
  • Replacement batteries and chargers should be bought from a reputable dealer.
  • Register your product with the manufacturer to receive information if the battery is subject to a product recall.
  • Do not charge batteries or store your device near combustible or flammable materials.
  • Never leave to charge unattended for long periods and avoid charging devices overnight or otherwise in periods of inattentiveness. 
  • Do not overcharge the battery to prevent damage.
  • Make sure you charge your device in a well-ventilated area and do not cover the battery.
  • Do not charge outdoors.
  • Always unplug your charger when it is finished charging

Maintenance:

  • Keep the battery and the mobility scooter clean.
  • Regularly inspect battery terminals for any signs of corrosion.

Storage:

  • Avoid storing mobility scooters on escape routes or in communal areas of multi-occupancy buildings, where, in the event of a fire, they might compromise escape routes.
  • Avoid exposing the battery to excessive heat or cold.
  • Ensure a full charge no less frequently than every 4-6 weeks.

Shipping:

  • Any batteries must be at least 25-30% charged when shipped.
  • Batteries greater than 100Wh/4Ah should be transported as Dangerous Goods.

Disposal:

  • Return old or damaged lithium batteries to an appropriate take-back scheme or electronic waste handler for proper recycling and disposal,


Important. Please Note:

  • Ensure you have working smoke alarms, especially in the area where you are charging your lithium battery.
  • If a lithium battery overheats, hisses, or bulges, immediately move the device with the battery away from flammable materials and place it on a non-combustible surface. If it is safe to do so, put the device and battery outdoors to burn out.
  • In the event of a fire, NEVER attempt to tackle it yourself; it is important to remember water isn’t effective at extinguishing a lithium battery fire and can actually make it worse – Get out, Stay out, Call 999.

Customer Support:

  • For questions, concerns, or assistance related to your device and its battery, please contact info@mobilitybritain.com, or the manufacturer directly. Contact details for your manufacturer will be in your User Manual.