Batteries used in electric vehicles, power tools, tables, phones and games are an increasing source of house fires, according to new figures from the insurers association VvV.

Last year batteries were responsible for 5% of all home fires, up from 3% in 2022, the VvV said on Wednesday.

“It is important people are aware of the risks,” said association director Richard Weurding. The batteries used in bikes and mopeds account for some 40% of the battery-driven fires, the VvV figures show.

Many people are unaware of what to do in case of a battery fire, and that using water in an attempt to put it out can lead to life-threatening situations, said Rob Baardse, of the national fire injury association Nederlandse Brandwonden Stichting.

The VvV said it is important to make sure batteries are properly maintained, to use proper chargers and have a smoke alarm in the room where they are being charged up. E-bikes and mopeds should also be properly insured so that if there is a fire, you may be able to make a claim.

Last year Amsterdam council said it planning a campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of electric batteries for bikes, scooters and mopeds following several serious fires in the city.

The city said it is planning to register these fires separately and will ask electric vehicle sellers to raise awareness of the risks as well as support a national public awareness campaign.