Fires linked to electric devices powered by lithium-ion batteries increased in Japan this year amid intense heat in the summer across the nation.
With the arrival of winter, the use of electrically heated clothing and rechargeable hand warmers is expected to rise, meaning that everyday products pose fire risks throughout the year. Raising safety awareness remains a key challenge in preventing such accidents.
According to the National Institute of Technology and Evaluation, lithium-ion batteries are vulnerable to heat and physical shock and can catch fire if subjected to strong external pressure. Overcharging and environmental factors, such as prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, increase the risk, while the use of cheap, low-quality products can further raise the likelihood of fire.
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