Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is once again urging residents to ensure safe charging practices of lithium-ion battery-powered devices, following an e-bike fire near Newcastle yesterday.
The owner was charging the device on the rear verandah of a property in Milford Street, Toronto just after 1.00 pm, when he heard a series of explosions. He ran outside and found the e-bike, which he had purchased second-hand only two weeks ago, well alight.
Fire risk in NSW
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or structural damage to the property
The owner quickly put the fire out with an extinguisher and a garden hose, before FRNSW crews arrived on the scene. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or structural damage to the property.
Lithium-ion battery fires are the fastest-growing fire risk in NSW. The e-bike fire is a timely reminder for residents to 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.
Most importantly, a working smoke alarm should be installed in any room, garage, or structure where lithium-ion batteries are regularly charged or stored.
