RE: lipo battery
Yeah, they don't really explode. They do make a loud pop, then make a sound much like a propane torch. The reason for the sound is simple. They look like a torch.
Using a fireproof container isn't a bad idea.
Keep in mind however, that with the simplest precautions, recharging our hobby LiPos isn't any more dangerous than charging our cell phones, ipods, camera batteries, etc. We do that all the time. Of course, those have fool proof chargers that don't have options.