He advised people to read the directions on the box when buying items powered by such batteries and never leave them in the toy or appliance involved.
"They have become popular with radio-controlled model enthusiasts because of their light weight and slow discharge compared to other batteries."
The fire service has put out a "safety alert' on lipo batteries.
"Unlike other batteries, lithium polymer batteries are chemically-volatile, and must be charged and handled carefully," the website alert states.
"Some houses and a business in New Zealand have been extensively damaged by fires caused by damaged, or improperly charged, lipo batteries.
"All vendors of such batteries should warn their customers of the dangers and recommend extreme caution in their use," the alert states.
Mr Rewi said he had checked out a number of toys and appliances powered by them.
"It states clearly on the boxes of the items I have seen - 'When not in use remove the battery'."
Mr Rewi said the batteries could be unstable in hot temperatures. "Particularly when they have been over-charged, or under-charged."
The fire service says lipo batteries burn extremely hot - more than 1000C - and can create a fireball 1.8m in diameter. Additional reporting by Gisborne Herald