On June 27, 2024, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a major recall of approximately 132,000 Baseus Magnetic Wireless Charging Power Banks. This urgent move followed 171 reported incidents of overheating, including 39 fires, 13 burn injuries, and tens of thousands in property damage. These statistics are alarming—but sadly, they’re not unique.
As manufacturers of AVD Fire Blankets and Extinguishers, specifically engineered to combat lithium-ion battery fires, we want to take this opportunity to highlight the growing risks posed by everyday battery-powered devices—and how to keep your home safe.
These magnetic power banks were marketed for convenience, designed to snap onto the back of smartphones and charge wirelessly. But between bulging batteries, thermal runaway, and fire hazards, convenience turned into catastrophe for dozens of consumers.
According to the recall notice:
132 incidents involved batteries bulging or swelling, a key indicator of battery cell failure.
39 of those cases resulted in fires.
Injuries included 13 cases of burns, and the recall has already resulted in over $20,000 in property damage.
Consumers are now being urged to stop using these units immediately and to follow proper disposal guidelines via local recycling centres, underscoring the very real dangers associated with mishandling lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries power everything from mobile phones to e-bikes, portable power packs, and more, but they come with serious risks. If overcharged, physically damaged, or exposed to high temperatures, these batteries can enter thermal runaway. This rapid, uncontrollable reaction can cause toxic smoke, explosions, and fires resistant to conventional extinguishers.
That’s why at AVD Fire, we developed specialist suppression tools like our Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Extinguishers and Fire Blankets, designed specifically to neutralise these unique hazards.
The following guidelines are for guidance purposes only.
Full guidance can be found on the Northampton Fire and Rescue Service website
This isn’t just about one manufacturer. As lithium-ion battery-powered devices become more common—from power banks to scooters to energy storage systems—the risk of fire increases. Fire services worldwide are reporting an alarming increase in residential and commercial lithium-ion battery-related fire incidents.
That’s why fire protection strategies must evolve—and why AVD Fire is committed to helping homes and businesses stay safe with the right suppression and safety solutions.
The Baseus recall is a clear wake-up call. These weren’t niche gadgets—they were mass-market products, sold on Amazon and AliExpress for as little as $18. If it can happen to a product like this, it can happen to any lithium-powered device in your home.
At AVD Fire, we’re urging everyone to take simple, proactive steps to reduce the risk—and to ensure they’re prepared should a fire occur.
Stay safe. Stay informed. And protect what matters.
For more information about our lithium-ion battery fire protection solutions, visit our product page: www.avdfire.com or contact our team directly.
