What is the treatment for a lithium battery fire?

• A. Water only.
• B. Foam.
• C. Non-flammable liquids/ice (ice increases risk of explosion).
• D. Direct flame contact.

Answer: (C)

When a lithium battery fire occurs, the goal is to cool the cells and cut off oxygen in a way that prevents the battery from continuing to heat and re-ignite. Using a non-flammable liquid extinguishing agent, such as foam, blankets the burning surface and absorbs a large amount of heat without feeding the reaction. This helps smother the fire and slow or stop the thermal runaway inside the cells.

Direct flame contact adds heat and can drive the fire to spread or rupture more material, so it should be avoided. Ice is not suitable because rapid cooling can stress the cell and its seals, potentially triggering venting or a more violent release of contents, increasing the risk of explosion. Therefore, the safest and most effective approach is to apply a non-flammable liquid to cool and smother the fire, while avoiding ice and direct flame.