Managing Risk when Charging LiPos

If you own some Lithium Polymer batteries you are no doubt aware that you should not charge these batteries indoors, or anywhere outdoors that is flammable. In Australia this does present somewhat of a challenge because pretty much the entire Country is flammable (Canberra probably even more so - although our big bonfire all those years ago did wipe out some of the fuel mass).

I'm guessing a whole lot of people charge their LiPos indoors, even though they know they shouldn't, and even though they know there is a risk. Well, if you have to do it (and please understand I'm not endorsing it) you may as well do something to try and minimise the risk.

This ceramic cookie jar came from Kmart (about $9AUD) and I'm using it as a container when charging my LiPos (whether I'm charging indoors or out). The basic idea is to contain the initial fire the LiPo creates. It has one of those lever action clasps which is ideal because it allows the lid to be hooked under, so that when a force comes from within the container the lid won't fly open, but also leaves a gap to allow the charging lead in, and also allow gases to vent (which if you don't have your "container" may explode). Obviously you want to point the partially open lip of the container away from anything flammable. I also removed the rubber seal from mine - didn't seem that was needed, and would add combustible material to the mix, and might even prevent gases from venting as effectively.

I honestly have no idea how effective this might be if I have a LiPo fire but it is a heck of a lot better than nothing in my opinion. If you live in the US/Canada you should probably have a look at the Battery Bunker. It is purpose made and tested for exactly this job. I looked into trying to get some of these to Australia but the freight was a bit much.