Lithium-ion battery sparks unit fire in Sydney's inner west - Auburn
Published: 24 Sep 2024 03:48pm
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) investigators today have confirmed a fire at Auburn, in Sydney's inner west, was sparked by a faulty Lithium-ion battery.
Residents of a home on Station Road had an incredibly lucky escape when the e-bike battery caught fire just after 7pm last night.
The occupants were first alerted to the fire by the smell of smoke before calling Triple Zero (000).
FRNSW firefighters attended the scene and quickly extinguished the fire, containing damage to the kitchen, where the battery was placed on charge.
The rest of the home was significantly damaged by smoke.
Firefighters ventilated the house and the battery was placed in a container of water to prevent re-ignition.
They found the home did not have any working smoke alarms fitted, so took the opportunity to install two of the life-saving devices.
As a result of the blaze, NSW Ambulance treated one man for smoke inhalation.
FRNSW is reminding the public about the dangers of Lithium-ion batteries, and recommends:
- A smoke alarm be installed in any room, garage or structure where lithium-ion batteries are regularly charged or stored.
- Ensure safe charging practices are adhered to including:
- Always charge larger devices, such as e-bikes, e-scooters and power tools outside, away from living spaces and exits.
- Never sleep or leave home with your lithium-ion battery devices charging.
- Once a device has fully charged, disconnect it from the charger.
- Never leave devices charging on beds, sofas or around combustible materials.
- Use an approved replacement battery or charger from the manufacturer and never ‘mix and match’ components.
- Beware of cheap, substandard lithium-ion battery devices.
- Ensure you have a home evacuation plan in the event of fire.
- Do not touch a device or lithium-ion battery that is emitting vapour or gas, or that may be on fire. Immediately evacuate the area and call Triple Zero (000).
Updated: 24 Sep 2024 03:53pm
Related safety topics
It's important that we all understand the risks of lithium-ion batteries and be prepared if things go wrong.
It“s the law to have at least one working smoke alarm installed on every level of your home.
Having a home escape plan and a working smoke alarm increases your chances of getting out safely.
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]
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