This article will provide an in-depth look at the best practices for extinguishing a lithium battery fire, including the types of extinguishers to use, safety precautions, and post-fire procedures.
Which fire extinguishers can be used on lithium-ion batteries?
The following fire extinguishers are specifically designed for use on lithium-ion battery fires which are not the same as standard lithium batteries (use a Class D L2 Powder Extinguisher on standard lithium battery fires).
How do lithium battery fire extinguishers work?
Our lithium battery fire extinguishers are specially designed to put out such fires. Lith-ex fire extinguishers use a non-toxic and revolutionary extinguishing agent called AVD or Aqueous Vermiculite Dispersion, which is deployed as a mist to create a film over surfaces.
Application: Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire, and apply the powder evenly to cover the burning material. Lithium-ion battery fires can be effectively managed with standard dry chemical or ABC fire extinguishers. These extinguishers use a dry chemical agent to interrupt the chemical reaction of the fire. Key Points:
Do you need a lithium ion fire extinguisher?
Proper use of a lithium-ion fire extinguisher, following the manufacturer's instructions and ensuring it is rated specifically for lithium-ion battery fires, is essential for effectively managing these dangerous fires. Why Should You Also Have a Lithium-Ion Fire Blanket?
While CO2 extinguishers are effective for many types of fires, they are not suitable for lithium battery fires. They do not cool the battery sufficiently, and the fire may re-ignite once the CO2 dissipates. If it is safe to do so, disconnect the battery or power source to cut off the supply of electricity.
Foam extinguishers are also ineffective and unsafe for lithium battery fires. While CO2 extinguishers are effective for many types of fires, they are not suitable for lithium battery fires. They do not cool the battery sufficiently, and the fire may re-ignite once the CO2 dissipates.