Electric scooters powered by lithium-ion batteries possible sparked a latest four-alarm blaze in Medford, in keeping with fireplace officers who urged individuals to securely use, retailer, and cost these units.
The fireplace at 43 Allston St. began in a first-floor laundry room, the place two badly-damaged, battery-powered scooters have been situated.
Fire investigators decided that the hearth quickly unfold from that time, inflicting main harm to the two-family dwelling and displacing all 4 residents. One particular person was transported from the scene for medical care. A close-by dwelling sustained exterior warmth harm.
Firefighters battled the flames from all sides of the construction for about two and a half hours earlier than bringing it below management.
“Lithium-ion batteries contain a tremendous amount of power in a small package,” mentioned Medford Fire Chief John Freedman.
“When they burn, they burn extremely hot, release toxic gases, and can re-ignite even after the fire has been extinguished,” Freedman added. “It’s vitally important to use, store, and charge them safely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.”
Fire officers additionally really useful the next security pointers:
- Store scooters and e-bikes outside if doable. If you have to retailer them indoors, hold them and their batteries away from doorways, home windows, and stairways.
- Charge the battery instantly from a wall outlet, not an extension twine or energy strip. Place it on a tough and secure floor, not a mattress, sofa, or pillow.
- Charge just one battery or gadget at a time and unplug it when it’s absolutely charged. Don’t enable a charged battery to proceed charging.
- If you discover adjustments to the battery or the gadget, together with harm, an uncommon odor, a change in coloration, an excessive amount of warmth, change in form, leaking, smoking, or not conserving a cost, cease utilizing it and take it to a certified skilled for restore.
- If and when it’s time to eliminate the battery, don’t put it within the trash. Lithium-ion batteries ought to be recycled, and you could find a location to take them at www.call2recycle.org/locator/.
Source: www.bostonherald.com”