In today's fast-paced world, our mobile phones have become as essential as the air we breathe. They keep us connected to our loved ones, provide us with endless entertainment, and even help us manage our daily tasks. But despite their significance in our lives, it turns out that many of us might be taking a crucial aspect of phone maintenance for granted: charging.


According to recent findings, a staggering number of Australians are charging their mobile phones – and other devices with lithium-ion batteries – incorrectly. This seemingly innocuous oversight has led to a worrying increase in house fires across the country, as highlighted by alarming insurance claims data from Allianz.


The research conducted by Allianz has shed light on the battery-powered devices most commonly responsible for house fires. Surprisingly, it's not just the e-scooters and e-bikes that have been making headlines for causing blazes. Common household items like mobile phones have been identified as a more frequent source of fires.


Chris Wood, Allianz's emerging risk manager, dispels the myth that only owners of e-scooters need to be cautious. He points out that mobile phones are becoming an increasing cause of house fires due to the lack of awareness about proper charging practices. 'The common theme is that people are charging them in bed,' Mr Wood explains. 'You're not supposed to charge them on top of flammable items, but people will charge them under doonas and pillows.'

The danger is compounded when phones are charged overnight, with updates running, in a bed that's already warm from body heat and possibly an electric blanket. This creates a perilous situation that can lead to disaster, as evidenced by instances where parents have woken up to find their teenager's bed ablaze.

Allianz's claims data reveals that mobile phones are the second most common cause of fires caused by lithium-ion devices, accounting for 12 per cent, just behind power and garden tools at 38 per cent. Battery cell devices like torches are responsible for 31 per cent of battery fires, while e-scooters and e-bikes account for 11 per cent, and remote-control toys and hobby devices such as drones and kids' ride-on cars cause 8 per cent.


In 2024 alone, there was a total of $16.1 million in insurance claims due to lithium battery-related incidents. These figures are a stark reminder of the importance of charging our devices safely.

The key mistakes Aussies are making include leaving devices plugged in after the batteries are fully charged and using mismatched cords and chargers. Charging devices with cords and chargers intended for different devices is particularly dangerous for power and garden tools. Users often purchase new batteries or chargers online from cheap retailers or platforms like Facebook Marketplace without ensuring compatibility or quality control.

To protect yourself and your home from potential fire hazards, here are some essential tips:


- Install smoke detectors in areas where you charge your devices, such as bedrooms and garages.- Avoid charging devices overnight while you sleep.- Unplug or stop charging your devices once they reach full battery.- Keep an eye on your devices while they're charging, ensuring they're attended.- Regularly inspect and discard old chargers and cords, especially if you notice any fraying or damage to the wiring.

Remember, while it's tempting to save a few dollars by opting for cheaper, non-branded chargers and batteries, the risks far outweigh the savings. It's always better to invest in reputable brands from known retailers to ensure the safety and longevity of your devices.
Are we guilty of some of these common mistakes? It's never too late to change our ways and prioritize safety. Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below.