Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public to take extra care when charging battery-powered devices, following six house fires in the county this year alone.

The incidents involving lithium-ion batteries have affected a range of devices including e-scooters, e-bikes, power tools, a games console, and a portable power bank. In the most recent case, a fire broke out at a home in Wisbech after a battery from a DIY e-bike conversion kit exploded. The blaze caused significant damage, and one resident sustained burn injuries.

"These incidents highlight the potential risks that lithium-ion batteries can pose and how it is vital for people to be alert when charging any kind of device" said Station Commander Gareth Boyd. he explained that It’s crucial that people use the original charging packs supplied by the manufacturer, rather than cheaper alternatives that may not meet safety standards. Substandard equipment can result in "explosions and rapidly intense fires".

Additional incidents across the county include:

• A fire in Chesterton, Cambridge, after an e-scooter and several power tools left on charge led to a battery explosion.
• A kitchen fire in Soham, where a games controller and a portable power bank were being charged.
• Another e-bike battery-related fire in Peterborough, again involving a DIY kit purchased via an online marketplace.

In total, the county’s fire crews have responded to 33 battery-related fires since January 2023.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service is advising residents to follow key safety tips:

• Only use batteries and chargers that match the correct voltage and are fully compatible with the device.
• Avoid charging devices overnight or when you are out of the house.
• Always follow manufacturer guidelines for charging and storage.

More detailed safety guidance is available via the Service’s Take Charge and Be Safe campaign page.

View the source.

Our eNews provides regular insight into industry trends, news headlines, and product and service information. For more articles like this Subscribe to our enews.