Guide
Preventing EV battery fires at home
Battery fires are rare, but most of the risk is in the hands of the owner: what you buy, which charger you use and where you charge. Here are the rules we follow ourselves.
Quick answer
Use a certified battery and its original charger, charge in an open, ventilated place away from bedrooms and exits, do not leave it charging while everyone sleeps, and stop if it is hot, smells or swells. If smoke appears, get everyone out and call 112.
What India learned from the 2022 scooter fires
After several electric scooters caught fire in 2022, the government asked experts, including DRDO’s fire-safety laboratory, to investigate. Their findings, as reported at the time, pointed mainly to poor-quality cells, weak battery pack design and not enough testing.
The road transport ministry then tightened the battery safety standard AIS-156 in two phases, the second from 31 March 2023. It added tests so that one overheating cell must not set the whole pack on fire, a warning to the rider, more temperature sensors and a stricter BMS. That is why a certified battery matters.
Buy and fit safely
- Buy a battery from a known maker with proper test certification, not an unbranded pack.
- Use the original charger, or one approved for that exact battery voltage and chemistry.
- No aftermarket tampering: no extra cells, bypassed BMS, speed unlocks or loose wiring.
- Plug the charger straight into a sound wall socket, not a cheap extension board.
Where and when to charge
- Charge in an open, airy, dry place such as a ground-floor parking area or balcony.
- Not in a bedroom, not in a narrow staircase or passage, and not next to the main door — a fire there blocks the only way out.
- Do not leave it charging overnight unattended while the family sleeps. Charge while someone is awake nearby, and unplug when full.
- Keep it away from curtains, cloth stock, paper, gas cylinders and fuel.
- Stop charging if the battery is hot, smells odd or looks swollen.
If you see smoke
Do not try to fight a battery fire. Get everyone out, close the door behind you if you can, and call 112. In Surat, fire calls now go through 112; 101 was the old fire number. Switch off the mains only if it is safe to reach.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to charge an electric scooter overnight?
Fire services advise not charging while everyone is asleep. Charge in the evening while someone is awake and unplug when it is full.
Can I charge my scooter battery in the bedroom?
No. Charge in an open, ventilated place away from sleeping areas and away from the way out of the house.
What number should I call for a fire in Surat?
Call 112, India’s emergency number. Gujarat has moved fire calls in Surat to 112.
Can I use any charger with the same voltage?
No. Lead-acid, lithium-ion and LFP need different charging voltages. Use the original or one matched to your battery; ask us if unsure.
Want a safe, certified battery?
We sell and fit lead-acid, lithium-ion and LFP batteries with matching chargers for any brand. Ask us on WhatsApp 99091 21112.