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Examining fire risks, electrical hazards, and health concerns linked to 5G masts, lithium-ion systems, and faulty smart meters.

The British Safety Council reported that UK fire services attended 921 lithium-ion battery fires in 2023 a 46% increase on the previous year. Around one-third of these incidents involved e-bikes, with further cases linked to e-scooters and electric cars. Lithium-ion fires are particularly dangerous because they can erupt suddenly through “thermal runaway,” producing extreme heat and toxic smoke that is difficult to extinguish (British Safety Council, 2024).

QBE has called for greater public education on preventing and managing these incidents, warning that lithium-ion fires “burn differently from normal fires” and can cause “explosive fire incidents” with the potential for serious injury or death.

At the same time, growing numbers of phone mast fires, including at 5G installations, have been reported in the UK and worldwide. While some reports claim arson as the cause, the EM Radiation Research Trust and other observers have pointed to evidence suggesting that electrical faults, overheating, and possible equipment failures may play a significant role. This raises important questions, particularly as 5G infrastructure often involves complex electronic systems and back-up power supplies that could be vulnerable to the same risks now widely recognised with lithium-ion batteries. (Radiation Research Trust, 2024).

Taken together, these developments point to a growing fire safety risk at the intersection of modern wireless infrastructure and energy storage systems. As reliance on lithium-ion technology increases, and as 5G networks expand with complex electronic components and backup systems, there is an urgent need to properly investigate and address the true causes of mast fires whether arson, electrical failure, or battery malfunction to ensure public safety and infrastructure resilience.

In addition to these concerns, the recent recall of EDMI Atlas Mk7CD smart meters due to fire and electric shock risks further underscores the need for heightened awareness and safety measures. The Office for Product Safety and Standards issued a recall on 24 March 2025, citing that certain units manufactured between October 2022 and October 2024 may experience neutral terminal weld failure, leading to potential fire hazards and electric shocks. gov.je+3GOV.UK+3Pro Certs Software Ltd+3

“With flammable lithium-ion systems, faulty smart meters, and growing evidence of health risks, 5G masts and associated infrastructure raise serious safety concerns,” said Eileen O’Connor, Charity Director at the EM Radiation Research Trust. “Public outcry is mounting, and precaution demands these masts and smart meters must be removed before more harm happens.”

The Trust is calling on fire services, regulators, and government departments to examine the role of lithium-ion batteries and electrical failures in mast fires.

Call to Action:

We urge householders, especially those with smart meters installed near gas meters, to:

♦ Check their insurance policies to ensure coverage for fire, electrical damage, and potential EMF-related risks. Notably:
 - Lloyds has refused to cover 5G/Wi-Fi illnesses (Principia Scientific)
 - Swiss Re has placed electromagnetic radiation in its highest-risk category (JRSECO)

♦ Report any faulty or overheating equipment to local authorities and the Office for Product Safety and Standards.

♦ Request the removal of smart meters and replacement with safer analogue meters. For detailed guidance, see the EM Radiation Research Trust Smart Meter Information Action Pack.

♦ Stay informed about potential safety risks associated with 5G masts, lithium-ion systems, and smart meters. Campaigners can use the Monster Mast Action Pack for practical tools to protect their communities.

By taking these precautions, homeowners can help protect themselves and their communities from potential hazards.

📌 Recommendations

  • ♦ Enhanced Safety Standards: Implement stricter safety regulations for lithium-ion batteries, particularly those used in e-bikes, e-scooters, and electric vehicles.The Times
  • ♦ Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch nationwide campaigns to educate the public on the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and the importance of proper disposal.
  • ♦ Independent Investigations: Conduct independent investigations into the causes of 5G mast fires and assess the potential health risks associated with increased RF radiation exposure.Radiation Research
  • ♦ Product Safety Oversight: Strengthen oversight and enforcement of product safety standards for smart meters and other electrical appliances to prevent incidents of electric shock and fire.

Sources:

Also download the EM Radiation Research Trust Phone Mast & Smart Meter Fires – A Global Public Safety Crisis: https://radiationresearch.org/5g-phone-mast-fire-london-8th-november-2024/