standard LiPo batteries can suffer from explosive failure if they are pierced. three are other battery chemistries, like LiFePO4 that are much safer and outgas much less easily. the downside is the LiFePO4 have less energy density.
that said, LiPo batteries can be safely used. You need to use a circuit that carefully measures the charging voltage, and shuts off the charger before it overcharges. If you have multiple batteries in series for higher voltage, you need to be able to charge them individually using a "balancer circuit".
Unfortunately, that is about all I know on the topic. others can chime in with more ideas.