A lithium-ion battery from an electric scooter exploded in a home in Ludlow, Massachusetts, on Tuesday, causing a fire and significant property damage.
Ludlow fire responded to a 911 call at 56 Haviland St. around 3:53 p.m. Tuesday and found heavy flames showing from several windows of the single-story home. Additional resources were called to the scene, and firefighters were able to get the blaze under control within 15 minutes.
All residents of the home were able to escape safely but are currently displaced due to extensive fire and smoke damage.
The origin and cause of the fire were investigated by the Ludlow Fire Department and state police investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Based on their investigation, they determined that the fire was accidental in nature and started when the battery pack from an electric scooter exploded in the kitchen. The battery had been failing to charge, and an after market power unit purchased online was being used.
Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day at home, work, and school,” Ludlow Fire Chief Ryan Pease said in a statement. “It’s vitally important that we purchase, charge, and recycle these batteries safely to prevent incidents like this one. Fortunately, no one was injured in yesterday’s fire but the danger was very real.”
“Always use the manufacturer’s suggested equipment when charging lithium-ion batteries,” State Fire Marshal Jon Davine added. “Aftermarket accessories may not be compatible with the battery and have been associated with a rising number of fires. If the battery won’t take a charge, dispose of it safely. Take it to a household hazardous waste drop-off in your community or a battery recycling location.”
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