Battery fires continue to increase globally each year, spurring a need for proper IT asset disposition. July marked a new high for battery-related fires, with 56 reported fire incidents, the most ever recorded in a single month, according to Ryan Fogelman. Since 2016, Fogelman has been compiling and publishing “The Reported Waste & Recycling Facility Fire In The US/CAN”. As the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships for Fire Rover, Fogelman speaks regularly on the scope of fire problems facing the waste and recycling industries, detection solutions, proper fire planning, and early-stage fire risk mitigation. In a technologically driven era, proper IT asset disposition is critical for battery fire prevention, and ITAD providers are a key player in risk mitigation.
A Rise in Battery Fires
According to Fogelman, the first half of 2025 set new records for battery fires and is considered the worst first quarter since he began tracking and reporting waste and recycling facility fire data. August followed with 49 reported incidents, the highest ever recorded in that month. Of the 49 incidents, 19 occurred at facilities for waste, paper, and plastics, but only two occurred at electronics recycling operation facilities. Fogelman coined the term “summertime spike” to describe the uptick in fire incidents during the summer months, but the risk baseline has risen.
This rise is due primarily to the significant increase in personal devices. There are more mobile subscriptions in use than there are people in the world, with projections suggesting a continuous rise. Smartphones, watches, tablets, earbuds, and other devices are often left in drawers or thrown away in the trash. Even electric scooters are a fire hazard when not disposed of correctly. All of the devices contain Lithium-Ion batteries (LIBs), a number one fire hazard in the e-waste industry.
Lithium Battery Dangers
Known for their rechargeable properties and high energy density, LIBs are found in many electronics such as phones, laptops, tablets, smart watches, and even smaller EVs like e-bikes and e-scooters. They are also known for their explosive nature and can be extremely dangerous if not disposed of properly. One of the most common factors contributing to battery fires is battery damage. Poor storage and disposition can lead to cell penetration and cause battery fires in warehouses, offices, and even in homes.
Proper Disposition with an ITAD Partner
When it comes to electronic waste disposal, including batteries, the safest and most responsible method is recycling through a professional disposition service. IT asset disposition companies collect old electronics and ensure their safe and proper disposal. By partnering with an ITAD provider like HOBI, you prevent environmental pollution and ensure professional battery removal with strict safety measures. This approach to electronics recycling effectively prevents harmful chemicals from entering the atmosphere and reduces the risk of fires in landfills.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.