Batteries – When the old phone smokes

Are lithium batteries fire bombs?

Lithium (Li-Ion) batteries in particular are almost impossible to wipe clean.
These batteries also burn underwater, and do not require any air supply.
However, they are cooled in water, and with a little luck, the chemical reaction stops.
If a device with a lithium battery burns out, you must remove it very quickly.

Shipping is also a problem.
Years ago I developed and built a charger for lithium batteries and I am familiar with the topic.
Deep discharging is mentioned in the article, but overcharging is not mentioned.
Typically, you should keep these batteries at a charge level between 30 to 80%.
Especially with cheap chargers, overcharging basically cannot be ruled out.
If a standard car battery is overcharged, it will simply start burning and not catch fire.
This is different with a lithium battery, which heats up when overcharged and can subsequently burn.

Personally, I avoid devices with Li batteries as much as possible.
Especially when it comes to tools and garden equipment, battery operation is a nice gimmick and not a necessity.
Many small appliances such as flashlights or children's toys are also available with nickel metal hydride batteries.
These batteries are completely safe and easy to change as well.