Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) investigators now 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 7 pm last night. The occupants were first alerted to the fire by the smell of smoke before calling Triple Zero (000).
FRNSW firefighters
Firefighters ventilated the house and the battery was placed in a container of water to prevent re-ignition
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.
Dangers of lithium-ion batteries
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 the 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 they have a home evacuation plan in the event of fire.
- Do not touch a device or lithium-ion battery that is emitting vapor or gas, or that may be on fire. Immediately evacuate the area and call Triple Zero (000).
