E-scooter battery fire leads to hospitalisation in Derby
UKPulse Health Desk
Two people were taken to hospital for precautionary checks after a house fire in Derby, believed to be caused by a charging e-scooter. Firefighters have issued a warning about lithium-ion batteries.
- A house fire in Alvaston, Derby, on Saturday morning is believed to have been caused by a charging e-scooter.
- Two occupants, including a woman rescued from scaffolding, were taken to hospital for precautionary checks due to smoke inhalation.
- Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has warned about the rapid spread and toxic gases from fires involving lithium-ion batteries.
Firefighters tackled a house fire in Alvaston, Derby, on Saturday morning, which is believed to have been caused by a charging e-scooter. Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to Baker Street at 02:01 BST.
Crews rescued a woman from scaffolding outside the property. She and another occupant were taken to hospital for precautionary checks due to smoke inhalation.
Ellie Gillatt, area manager for fire prevention, stated that fires involving lithium-ion batteries can develop quickly and produce large amounts of smoke and toxic gases. She urged e-scooter and e-bike owners to take steps to reduce fire risks, such as using manufacturer-approved chargers and avoiding overcharging.
It is also important not to charge or store these devices near escape routes. The fire service advises ensuring working smoke alarms are present and to call 999 if a battery catches fire.
What this means for you: If you own an e-scooter or e-bike, always use the manufacturer-approved charger, avoid overcharging, and do not leave batteries charging while you are asleep or away from home. Do not charge or store these devices near escape routes.