Suppliers of so-called lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers have been forced to revise misleading compliance claims β and the warning is just as relevant for New Zealand consumers.
Across the Tasman, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has taken action against suppliers whose marketing suggested their lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers comply with local safety standards. The problem? No such standard exists β in Australia or New Zealand β for this specific type of product.
This matters here because the joint Australian and New Zealand standard AS/NZS 1841 covers portable fire extinguishers, but it does not include a specific testing or approval category for lithium-ion battery fires. Products entering the market that claim compliance with AS/NZS 1841 may only have been tested and approved as general-purpose extinguishers β not for use on lithium-ion battery fires.
Not Suitable for General Public Use
The ACCC also raised serious concerns that these extinguishers were being marketed to everyday consumers without making it clear they are only suitable for use by trained firefighting professionals β due to the toxic and highly volatile nature of lithium-ion battery fires.
ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe put it plainly:
"The ACCC's view is that lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers should not be marketed as being suitable for use by members of the general public. Lithium-ion battery fires can spread rapidly, produce toxic smoke and can be very difficult to extinguish."
This position is consistent with guidance from fire authorities, who do not promote or endorse extinguishers "which purport to be effective on lithium-ion battery fires." The message for the general public is clear: if you're not a trained professional, a specialist extinguisher won't protect you in the way you might think.
Why Lithium-Ion Fires Are So Dangerous
The average New Zealand household is estimated to contain upward of 30 devices powered by lithium-ion batteries β phones, laptops, e-bikes, e-scooters, power tools, and children's toys, to name just a few. As these devices have become part of everyday life, lithium-ion battery fires have become one of the fastest-growing fire risks in homes.
The reason comes down to a process called thermal runaway β a rapid chemical reaction inside the battery that generates extreme heat and flammable gases. It can happen whether the battery is charging or simply being stored.
"Once it starts, the battery can ignite violently and be extremely difficult to extinguish. These fires can develop rapidly, produce toxic smoke and may reignite even after they appear to be out."
What Should You Do?
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) advises that if a lithium-ion battery catches fire, do not attempt to extinguish it yourself. Move well away from the device and call 111 immediately.
You can reduce your risk by:
- Regularly checking rechargeable battery products for signs of overheating, leaking, unusual odours, or strange noises
- Using only manufacturer-approved chargers
- Not leaving devices charging unattended or overnight
- Storing e-bikes and e-scooters away from living areas where possible
Buy with Confidence from a Trusted NZ Supplier
At PSL Fire & Safety, we only supply fire extinguishers that meet verified compliance requirements under AS/NZS 1841. If you're looking to protect your home, business, or vehicle, we can help you choose the right extinguisher for the right risk β without the confusion of misleading compliance claims.
Contact us today to talk through your fire safety needs with our team.
