Fire and Rescue NSW is warning of an alarming spike in lithium-ion battery fires, after responding to four separate e-bike and e-scooter fires in Sydney within the past 12 hours.
These four fires bring the total number of battery related fires across the state to 11.
Dangerous Device Detonates
The latest incident occurred where two men suffered injuries after an explosion and fire involving an e-scooter battery at a house in Sadlier in Sydney's southwest. Three fire trucks and 12 firefighters responded to a Triple Zero call reporting windows breaking and fire at a property in Yalta Street.
On arrival, firefighters found an e-scooter battery had exploded and caught fire, and two men had sustained injuries - one from flying shrapnel and the other from burns and smoke inhalation.
Fire Aftermath
It is believed that an incorrect charger was used to charge the scooter
Crews quickly extinguished the fire and provided emergency medical treatment to the two men until NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived.
An investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway. It is believed that an incorrect charger was used to charge the scooter, and the owner had modified the e-scooter.
Emergency Response
FRNSW crews also attended three other incidents involving micromobility devices including:
- An e-bike fire at Senior Street, Canley Vale at approximately 4.00am this morning;
- An e-scooter fire at Railway Street, Parramatta at approximately 10.00pm last night; and
- An explosion and fire of a home-made battery pack for an e-bike in a unit in Railway Street, Granville, around 9.00pm last night. One neighbor was assessed for smoke inhalation.
FRNSW is reminding the public about the dangers of modifying or repairing e-bikes and e-scooters with many recent incidents involving individuals attempting to build or modify their own micromobility devices using mismatched parts or unapproved chargers.
Smart Charging Tips
FRNSW is urging the public to take action and shop, charge and recycle safely to prevent lithium-ion battery fires:
- Never charge in exits or anywhere that would prevent people from escaping in the event of a fire
- Install active smoke alarms in the home/garage
- Always buy reputable lithium-ion battery brands and never ‘mix and match’ components
- Don’t leave devices charging in bedrooms or on beds, sofas or around highly flammable materials
- Try to charge devices outside if possible
- Beware of cheap, substandard lithium-ion battery-powered devices
- Avoid dropping, crushing or piercing battery cells
- If lithium-ion 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
- Store batteries and devices in a cool, dry area, away from combustible materials
- Ensure there is a home evacuation plan in the event of fire
