Have you ever wondered about garage flammable items and what poses the biggest risk in your own home? If you’re like me, you probably have both a lithium-ion battery for your leaf blower and a five-litre jerry can of petrol for your mower. But which one is more flammable? Let’s dive in!
Garage Flammable Items – Petrol Versus Lithium-Ion Battery
Petrol in the Garage – The Obvious Flammable Risk
When we think of garage flammable items, petrol is what comes to mind first. Petrol (or gasoline) is a liquid with a very low flash point. This means its vapours can ignite easily, even at room temperature. You only need a small spark to start a fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association , storing petrol in your garage needs extra caution, and always in approved containers.
Lithium-Ion Batteries – Hidden Fire Hazards
But what about lithium-ion batteries? Most new tools, like your cordless leaf blower, use these batteries. On the surface, they seem safer than petrol. However, lithium-ion batteries are considered one of the most hazardous garage flammable items because they can short-circuit, overheat, and even explode. Battery fires, while less common, can be fierce and difficult to put out. Here’s more info from Consumer Reports .
Comparing Garage Flammable Items – Which is More Dangerous?
- Petrol is always flammable, even when sitting still. Just a small leak or an exposed flame can turn your garage into a danger zone.
- Lithium-ion batteries usually need a fault to catch fire. Storing them away from heat and charging them following recommendations makes them safer, but not risk-free.
Both garage flammable items have their own risks. Petrol is more likely to catch fire, but lithium battery fires are harder to fight and more intense when they do occur.
How to Store Garage Flammable Items Safely
- Keep petrol in a well-sealed, approved jerry can, away from any heat or flame sources.
- Store lithium-ion batteries at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Charge only with the charger provided by the manufacturer.
- Never store these garage flammable items together or near anything that gets hot, such as your water heater.
Read more safety tips at Energy Safe Victoria and always follow your local guidelines.
Conclusion: Petrol or Lithium-Ion Batteries – Which Garage Flammable Item Wins?
So, which is the most dangerous? Petrol is more flammable and risky on a daily basis, while lithium-ion batteries can be unpredictable, but only under certain conditions. The safest bet is to treat all garage flammable items with respect and follow best safety practices.