Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) investigators suspect a faulty Lithium-ion battery caused a major house fire yesterday at Merrylands, in Sydney’s west. The blaze broke out in Murray Street, just before 2 pm.
Six fire trucks and more than 24 firefighters battled the intense blaze for around 90-minutes, working desperately to stop flames spreading to neighbouring homes. The fire caused extensive damage to the house. No-one was injured in the incident.
FRNSW’s FIRU fire scene
FIRU has assessed the fire scene and examined a large stockpile of lithium-ion batteries
FRNSW’s Fire Investigation and Research Unit (FIRU) has assessed the fire scene and examined a large stockpile of lithium-ion batteries and e-bikes kept on site. Fire investigators believe the property housed an e-bike spare parts business.
They believe a faulty battery went into ‘thermal runaway,’ a process whereby an overheated cell caused a chain reaction, causing the intense fire.
FRNSW lithium-ion battery-powered devices
FRNSW is warning the public to use extra caution when dealing with lithium-ion battery-powered devices, including micromobility products like e-bikes, e-scooters, and e-skateboards.
- Never sleep or leave home with the lithium-battery-powered devices charging
- Don't leave them constantly on charge
- If lithium batteries are damaged or compromised, dispose of them properly
- Don’t throw them out in the rubbish, they can start garbage truck or rubbish tip fires when compacted
- Contact the local, approved recycling center for disposal advice
- Don't leave devices charging on beds, sofas or around highly flammable materials
- Try to charge devices outside if possible
- Always buy reputable lithium-battery brands and never ‘mix and match’ components
- Beware of cheap, substandard lithium battery-powered devices
- Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing battery cells
- Store batteries and devices in a cool, dry area, away from combustible materials
- Install active smoke alarms in the home/garage
- Ensure they have a home evacuation plan in the event of fire
- Don’t store or charge lithium-ion-powered devices near exit points in the home