ONSET, Mass. — A failing lithium-ion battery was the cause of a weekend blaze at a hobby shop, according to authorities.
Firefighters responding to 3086 Cranberry Highway on January 5 around 11:40 a.m. for an alarm activation found heavy smoke pouring from the building, according to Fire Chief Jeffrey R. Osswald.
Once inside, crews were met by a “significant” fire in two businesses. A four-alarm response was called, drawing firefighters from across the region to help contain the blaze.
New video shows smoke shooting from a stand, eventually erupting into flames.
Investigators determined that the fire started accidentally in the front left corner of the store, and they are confident that it was caused by the failure of a lithium-ion battery in that area.
A Tier-1 Hazmat response was requested to assist in clearing the remaining batteries and knocking down hot spots.
One firefighter was hospitalized and released while fighting the fire.
“Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day,” said Chief Osswald. “The fire damage and heavy, toxic smoke from this incident demonstrate just how serious we all have to be about battery safety.”
Officials recommend the following safety tips when it comes to using, storing, and charging lithium-ion batteries:
Storage:
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions.
- Store lithium-ion batteries and the devices they power at room temperature whenever possible.
- Store scooters and e-bikes outdoors if possible. If you must store them indoors, keep them away from doors, windows, and stairways. Always keep these routes clear so you can escape and emergency personnel can enter.
Charging:
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.
- Always use the manufacturer’s battery, cord, and power adapter made specifically for the device. Aftermarket and generic accessories have been linked to serious fires.
- Plug the charger directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension cord.
- Don’t leave a device unattended while charging. Disconnect the charger when the device is fully charged: do not overcharge the device.
- Charge devices on a hard, stable surface -- never on a bed, couch, or pillow.
Use:
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
- Use the battery designed for your device.
- Stop using the battery if it’s damaged.
- Stop using the battery if you notice an unusual odor, change in color, change in shape, leaking, or odd noises. If you can do so safely, move the device away from anything that can burn and call your local fire department.
Disposal:
- Do not discard lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is the best option.
- If and when it’s time to dispose of the battery, don’t put it in the trash. Lithium-ion batteries should be recycled.
- You can find a location to take them at https://www.call2recycle.org/locator/.
“About 135 lithium-ion battery fires were reported in Massachusetts last year, and we believe the true number is even higher,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “When these batteries are abused, overcharged, overheated, or defective, they can fail rapidly and violently in a fire or explosion that also releases toxic, flammable gases.”