Can You Really Put Out a Lithium-Ion Battery Fire? 7 Proven Methods to Stop It Safely

October 29, 2025 GatlingTech

Why Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Happen

Lithium-ion batteries power everything from floor scrubbers to electric bikes, but they also carry a major risk: thermal runaway — a chain reaction where heat causes more heat until the battery ignites.

When a lithium-ion battery is damaged, overcharged, or exposed to extreme heat, internal cells can short-circuit, leading to explosive fires that are hard to extinguish.

A 2024 study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission showed a 42% increase in lithium-ion battery fire incidents over the past three years. These fires not only destroy property but can emit toxic gases and reach temperatures exceeding 1,000°C (1,832°F).

7 Effective Ways to Put Out a Lithium-Ion Battery Fire

Method	How It Works	Recommended Use	Safety Level
1. Use a Class D Fire Extinguisher	Contains dry powder that isolates oxygen.	Industrial areas, warehouses.	★★★★★
2. Sand or Dirt	Smothers the fire by cutting off oxygen.	Outdoor or emergency use.	★★★☆☆
3. Water (Cautiously)	Cools the surrounding cells to prevent spread.	Only in large volumes and open spaces.	★★☆☆☆
4. Fire Blankets	Physically blocks oxygen flow.	Ideal for small devices.	★★★★☆
5. Battery Fire Suppression Systems	Automated fire suppression for industrial use.	Data centers, labs.	★★★★★
6. Isolation and Cooling	Move battery away and let it burn out under supervision.	For single-pack fires.	★★★☆☆
7. Fire-Resistant Storage	Prevents thermal chain reaction during storage.	Long-term battery management.	★★★★★

Important: Never use CO₂ extinguishers or foam—they don’t effectively cool lithium-ion batteries and can spread flames.

Improving Lithium-Ion Battery Safety: The Real Solution

The best way to “fight” a lithium-ion battery fire is to prevent it entirely. Prevention begins with battery design, materials, and management systems.

How GATLINGTECH Lithium Batteries Enhance Safety

GATLINGTECH designs lithium batteries for low-speed cleaning and utility equipment like commercial scrubbers and sweepers. Their battery packs use automotive-grade LiFePO₄ (LFP) cells, which are far more stable than standard lithium-cobalt cells.

Model	Nominal Voltage	Capacity	Energy	Cycle Life	Weight
GT24100	25.6V	100Ah	2.56 kWh	>2500 Cycles	22.5 kg

Key Safety Features

Smart BMS (Battery Management System): Automatically cuts off charging or discharging during overcurrent or overtemperature situations.
Cell Balancing: Ensures consistent voltage across all cells, reducing fire risk.
Stainless Steel Casing: 201-grade powder-coated shell offers enhanced protection from impact and corrosion.
Temperature-Resistant Operation: Functions safely from -20°C to 55°C.
High Efficiency: Maintains stable discharge even under heavy load.

GATLINGTECH’s 24V–60V lithium batteries are used in floor scrubbers, sweepers, and other commercial cleaning machines, helping facilities achieve safe, long-lasting, and eco-friendly operations.

Real Customer Feedback

“We had a near-miss with another brand’s battery overheating during floor scrubbing. After switching to GATLINGTECH, the smart BMS alerted us before any issue. That safety feature alone saved us thousands.”
— Facility Manager, Melbourne, Australia

“The GT24100 runs longer and cooler. No swelling, no heat issues. After 2 years of use, the consistency is excellent.”
— Warehouse Cleaning Supervisor, Sydney

These stories reflect a growing concern among users — safety and reliability are no longer optional.

Expert Insights: Why Battery Safety Matters

According to Energy Storage Journal, over 60% of lithium battery fires occur due to BMS failure or improper thermal design. That’s why intelligent protection systems like those in GATLINGTECH batteries are becoming the new standard for commercial use.

The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) also recommends LFP chemistry for safety-critical environments because it offers better thermal stability and lower combustion potential.

Steps to Handle a Lithium-Ion Battery Fire

Unplug and Isolate — Disconnect the battery immediately if safe to do so.
Evacuate — Move people away and alert emergency services.
Cool the Area — Apply water or sand to surrounding materials, not directly on small fires.
Monitor — Lithium fires can re-ignite. Watch the area for several hours after extinguishing.

Reference: Fire Protection Research Foundation, NFPA Report 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use water to extinguish a lithium-ion battery fire?
A1: Only in large, controlled volumes. The goal is to cool surrounding areas, not extinguish with water directly.

Q2: What is the safest type of lithium battery?
A2: LiFePO₄ (LFP) batteries are considered the safest due to their thermal and chemical stability.

Q3: How can I store lithium batteries safely?
A3: Store in cool, dry areas, ideally in metal or fireproof containers. Avoid direct sunlight or near flammable materials.

Q4: How does a BMS improve battery safety?
A4: A Battery Management System monitors voltage, current, and temperature — automatically cutting power if parameters exceed safe levels.

Q5: Can GATLINGTECH batteries be used in cold environments?
A5: Yes. They operate reliably from -20°C to 55°C, making them suitable for a variety of industrial cleaning applications.