FIREFIGHTERS urged the public to “make sure your Christmas list isn’t a fire risk” after 26 house fires were caused by faulty lithium-ion batteries in the last year.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) assistant chief officer Jon Henderson gave the warning as many across the country prepare to gift electronic products such as laptops, phones and e-bikes powered by the batteries on Christmas.

“These items should be used safely and treated with respect as, when damaged or faulty, the batteries can cause significant fires which could have devastating results for you, your family and your home,” he said.