Since 2017, the ACCC has received 231 product safety reports linked to lithium-ion batteries and has been notified of 23 supplier-initiated product recalls, with 20 recalls due to fire risk from overheating or short-circuiting.

The ACCC initiated the Lithium-ion and Consumer Product Safety report in response to increasing reports, complaints and recalls about the hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries. The ACCC’s recommendations aim to support consumers to choose, use and dispose of lithium-ion batteries safely.

While lithium-ion battery fires are increasing, it is likely incidents are underreported because of issues with how information is collected and shared. The ACCC has proposed improved data collection practices to ensure solutions are targeted and effective.

Q: Am I allowed to have a TASER in my state? A: In New York Penal Code 265.01 (1), the law regarding the possession of electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns, was struck down in court in March of 2019. The current directive to law enforcement in NY is not to enforce the law. We have confirmed this with multiple District Attorney offices in the state. We also received confirmation that the State Police were given a directive not to enforce the law due to the judge’s ruling. This does not mean all law enforcement in the state will know this or that you may not run into issues. This is why we suggest, to our students, to keep a copy of the ruling on them. Due to the SCOTUS ruling in March of 2016 NY politicians can see that the NY law on TASERS and stun guns will also be deemed unconstitutional, by SCOTUS, and that is why they are not appealing the decision and instead have put forth Senate Bill S4849. This bill, when it becomes law, will fully allow possession of these devices. Matt went to Albany in June and met with Senator Hoylman’s office to talk about the bill and has been in touch with them since on its progress. Being that, in May of 2019, the governor signed law removing criminal sanctions associated with possessing gravity knives, there is no reason why he would not sign Senate Bill S4849 into law. Each state has their own restrictions and laws. Here is a list of TASER laws state by state.Q: Can I have a TASER on me, outside of my home, for self-defense and if so does it need to be concealed? A: As noted above, there is no enforceable law regarding the possession of electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns, in the state of New York. That said, you can legally open carry a TASER in public, in NY. HOWEVER, due to this being a new win in the courts we suggest that you keep it concealed. Not to mention, as with handguns, we suggest concealment for the element of surprise as well as not being targeted. Each state has their own restrictions and laws. Here is a list of TASER laws state by state. Q: In this course, do I need to “feel it” so I know the effects myself?A: No! Unlike in the Law Enforcement training, where we highly suggest that the recruits/students “ride the lightning”, in this course, civilians are strictly forbidden from being exposed during the class. Though you wont get shocked in the course, you will walk away with a shocking amount of knowledge from the teachings.Q: Does the Pulse+ work like the Law Enforcement X2 or X26 versions of the TASER?A: Yes the Pulse+ shoots two probes out, expels AFIDs, and you can drive stun after the probes are deployed, just like the law enforcement versions.

How often dolithium batteriescatch fire

The ACCC is warning consumers about rare but serious fire hazards from lithium-ion batteries and is asking consumers to choose, check, use and dispose of the batteries safely, in its latest report published today.

Lithium-ion battery

“We recommend that government and industry continue to develop solutions to ensure lithium-ion batteries are safely designed and can be sustainably disposed.”

An ACCC national voluntary survey of more than 4000 Australians found 54 per cent of respondents used aftermarket chargers and 39 per cent did not know how to correctly dispose of lithium-ion batteries. Many respondents said they leave devices unattended while charging.

Lithium-ion batteries are integral to achieving Australia’s transition to net zero emissions and a circular economy. The ACCC is seeking to demonstrate the importance of safe battery supply and design to support consumer confidence in the safety of lithium-ion products.

Why would I want to carry a TASER? Some people chose not to carry a firearm. A EW and/or Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) a.k.a. Pepper Spray (we offer OC training as well) are great alternatives. Not to mention, not all situations call for a firearm but may call for less-lethal force to stop a threat against you. It makes sense to use OC at 18′ or TASER at 15′ vs. getting into a hands-on close-quarters-battle with someone. It is better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.

As an increasing number of these products and batteries are disposed of, it’s critical there is adequate infrastructure for safe disposal.

Which lithium batteries are dangerousin Australia

“Some state and territory electrical safety regulators don’t have the power to regulate extra low voltage products, many of which contain lithium-ion batteries,” Ms Lowe said.

This course is taught by Matt Mallory, a TASER Certified Civilian Master Instructor (one of 19 and the first to teach the TASER Instructor Course in-person) and the first TASER Civilian Instructor in New York State. In this course Matt will cover: Use of Force Guidelines, TASER Function, Nomenclature & Operation, Proper use of a TASER, Levels of awareness, Live fire exercise, and much more! Knowing how to correctly and efficiently use a TASER can also indemnify you in court. Signup for the course below.

The ACCC acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands across Australia on which we live and work. We acknowledge their connection to this Country and pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

Lithium-ion batteries are the most widespread portable energy storage solution and have better power efficiency than other types of batteries. Consumers can recognise what type of batteries their device contains by looking for labels such as ‘lithium-ion’, ‘Li-ion’, ‘Li-po’, ‘lithium-polymer’ or some variation of ‘Li’.

Dolithium batteriesexplode in water

The report is informed by stakeholder submissions and consultation in response to the 2022 Li-Ion Batteries Issue Paper, and expert advice.

The ACCC commissioned a report from the CSIRO to seek expert scientific views on the product safety risks and mitigation strategies for lithium-ion batteries. This report is available on the ACCC website.

One Australian has reportedly died in a lithium-ion battery fire and the ACCC has received 231 product safety reports relating to lithium-ion batteries in the past five years. There have also been 23 recalls affecting an estimated 89,000 products on the market.

The ACCC has also recommended state and territory governments create a harmonised electrical regulatory framework and establish consistent requirements for the testing, labelling, transportation and storage of lithium-ion batteries.

LG Energy Solution Australia is recalling almost 17,000 home solar batteries in Australia because they may overheat and catch fire. Further information is on the Product Safety Australia website at LG’s recall and SolaX Power’s recall.

Whyare lithium batteries dangerouson planes

“We are concerned by increasing reports of lithium-ion battery fires resulting in property damage and serious injuries, including burns, chemical exposure and smoke inhalation,” ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said.

“Check your lithium-ion batteries for overheating signs of swelling, leaking or venting gas and immediately stop using your product if these signs are present,” Ms Lowe said.

Dolithium batteriesexplode in fire

You can purchase a TASER Pulse devices here, though not required for this course. Pepper spray may be available for purchase at our courses as well. If you are looking to teach this course visit the TASER Civilian Instructor Course page.

“Consumers should avoid mixing and matching chargers, unplug products when fully charged and charge batteries in a cool, dry place and away from combustible materials like beds, lounges or carpet.”

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are contained in common household items, including most mobile phones, laptops, tablets, e-scooters, e-bikes and power tools.

“Managing lithium-ion battery safety is complex, and government, industry and consumers must tackle the challenge together. Our report makes recommendations to better protect consumers, and includes practical advice to reduce the risks associated with these batteries,” Ms Lowe said.

Investment: $100 ($450 for Pulse device)Prerequisite: Must be 21 or older Exposure: You will NOT be exposed/shocked/lit-up in this classLength of Course: 3-4 hours What to Bring: Notebook & PenDress Attire: Comfortable clothing with a thick and secure beltInstructor: Matthew Mallory (The first TASER Civilian Instructor in New York State and one of 19 Civilian Master Instructors in the World)

Canlithium batteriescatch fire when not in use

“Consumers should keep lithium-ion batteries out of household rubbish and check recyclemate.com.au and bcycle.com.au for information about safe disposal,” Ms Lowe said.

Lithiumbattery explosion risk

Note: Due to a NY court ruling in March of 2019, Axon, the manufacturer of TASER, is now allowing the sale of their Energy Weapons (EWs) to New York residents. Read more about the ruling here: https://tinyurl.com/y4mmv7f4 Review the TASER device regulations by state here.

Whilst incidents are rare, they appear to be increasing and are serious when they occur. The batteries can overheat or explode if they are used, charged or disposed of incorrectly or if they are damaged, and fires caused by the batteries can be dangerous and difficult to extinguish.

Consumers are encouraged to report safety incidents (including near misses) to the supplier involved and concerns about unsafe products to the ACCC at the Product Safety Australia website.

An EW, a.k.a. TASER, is a non-lethal means of self-protection. An EW can be owned and carried by law-abiding citizens over, 18 years of age (New York is 21), consistent with their local laws and restrictions. A TASER’s ability to immediately incapacitate by short-circuiting the attacker’s central nervous system makes it in many cases a more reliable and defensible use of force. The TASER Pulse+ provides civilians with the same technology used by law enforcement nationwide but with a longer exposure time (30 seconds vs five (5) seconds). This is a less lethal option for civilians to temporarily incapacitate an assailant without the legal ramifications of using deadly force.

Correction: This media release was amended on 28 May 2024 to remove the estimate of how many  devices powered by lithium-ion batteries on average, would be in a household by 2026. The source for this estimate was in relation to internet connected devices which includes both lithium-ion and non-lithium-ion battery devices.

Lithium-ion batteries are more likely to catch fire when exposed to heat and moisture, or crushed – common conditions in garbage trucks and household waste facilities.