This analysis from the MAIF Foundation, in partnership with Calyxis, the CNRS, the University of Poitiers in particular, highlights not only the ownership rates but also the risks associated with technological devices, electronics and connected toys which take pride of place under the tree.
In French homes, the mobile phone reigns supreme with an ownership rate reaching 95%, followed closely by the laptop at 90%. Cordless portable tools and tablets complete the top quartet, present in 79% and 71% of homes respectively. Comfort and leisure equipment such as wireless headphones (70%), portable speakers (64%) and electric toothbrushes (62%) are also widely adopted.
Accident studies reveal a worrying reality: mobile phones account for more than half of incidents (53%), far ahead of laptops which represent 14% of accidents. External batteries and electronic cigarettes come in third place, each with 6% of reported incidents. This distribution of accidents does not exactly follow the ownership curve, suggesting that some devices pose higher risks than others.
New modes of electric mobility, although less widespread, are starting to appear in the statistics. Electric bikes, present in 21% of homes, and electric scooters (19%) each represent 1% of reported accidents. These figures, although relatively low, deserve special attention given the constant increase in these modes of transport.
In this study carried out by the Calyxis center of expertise we also discover that the average number of devices equipped with lithium-ion batteries per household is 15.7! But also that 69% of participants do not have good knowledge of the causes of damage to these batteries, and that 16% of respondents say they have already experienced a related incident or accident!
This study therefore underlines the crucial importance of increased awareness of the risks linked to batteries, particularly for the most common devices such as smartphones and laptops, which constitute not only the equipment most present in our homes but also the most likely to be involved in incidents.
Immediate measures in case of overheating
If you detect a lithium-ion battery overheating, here are the actions to take immediately:
- Disconnect any electrical power source
- Move the device to a fire-resistant surface, away from any flammable materials
- Monitor the battery for at least 24 hours as there is a risk of re-ignition
Danger signs to watch out for
A faulty battery can present several warning signs:
- Unpleasant smell of rubber or gas
- Abnormal inflation of the device
- Excessive heat even when the device is turned off
Store toys and devices in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources.
Actions to avoid
To avoid making the situation worse:
- Never attempt to recharge a hot or damaged battery
- Do not disassemble or open the battery
- Do not move the device if this presents a risk
In the event of a fire
If the situation worsens and a fire breaks out:
- Call the fire brigade immediately (18 or 112)
- Evacuate the premises by closing the doors behind you
- Do not breathe the toxic fumes released
The best approach remains prevention: use only original chargers, avoid exposure to excessive heat and regularly monitor the condition of your batteries.
Recycle used batteries at suitable collection points (Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE or D3E).
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