A fire believed to have started from a lithium-ion battery-powered electric bike or scooter left on charge has destroyed a shed in Queanbeyan. Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) were called to a property in Miller Street following reports of a fire around 7.15 am.
Upon arrival, firefighters found a shed at the back of a property well alight and quickly got to work. Crews took just over 30 minutes to extinguish the blaze and there were no reported injuries. The shed was completely destroyed in the fire.
FRNSW lithium-ion powered devices
FRNSW is urging the community to be extra vigilant when charging lithium-ion powered devices, including:
- 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
