Following a recent incident at Gayton Marina, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people of the potential fire risks that lithium-ion batteries can present.
Crews were called to the Marina on the morning of August 5 to tackle a fire that had engulfed the cabin of a canal boat.
Just moments before they were ready to start tackling the flames, the boat exploded. Thankfully there were no serious injuries, and crews were able to extinguish the fire.
The boat was fitted with Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) batteries, which are larger batteries typically used to power electric vehicles.
An investigation remains ongoing to determine what happened to the batteries to start the fire.
Area Manager Neil Sadler, of Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Lithium-ion batteries come in all shapes and sizes and are used in everyday items we all own, so we want to remind people of the hazards they can sometimes pose.
“If they overheat or are punctured, crushed or overcharged, then they can release a flammable vapour which can ignite, burn or in some cases explode.
“Although we believe the fire was started by the batteries on this occasion, we do not know precisely why, and we are working with the owners of Gayton Marina while the investigation continues to fully understand what happened.
“We want to ensure people follow the appropriate safety advice to mitigate any risks that lithium-ion batteries can pose in products we use every day, such as mobile phones, electric cars, charging devices and tools.
“The main advice is for people not to put these batteries in the bin. Make sure you take them to your local household recycling centre so that staff there can dispose of them safely.”
Please also consider the following safety advice:
- If you see white vapour, that may look like smoke, coming from a battery then get out, stay out and call the Fire Service on 999.
- Never charge lithium-ion batteries when you are sleeping or are away from your home.
- Never charge lithium-ion batteries in a place where you would need an escape route from a potential fire – it will block your way out should they set on fire.
- Use chargers that come with any devices you buy. Always read the manufacturer’s safety instructions, never cover chargers and make sure it is charged in a well-ventilated area.
- Buy replacement batteries or chargers from trusted suppliers, and chose a genuine, branded product.
Picture courtesy of K Donald.
