Officials determined that two recent fires in Medford and New Bedford were likely caused by lithium-ion batteries, which are found in a variety of household items.
Fire officials say the cause of a large duplex house fire in Medford on Sunday was likely the lithium-ion battery-powered scooters found badly damaged in the first-floor laundry room. One of the four residents was transported to the hospital, and the fire caused major damage to the building.
The fire broke out just before 5 p.m. on Sunday and quickly intensified, officials say. Firefighters from multiple communities could be seen working on the building at Prescott and Allston streets as heavy flames and a large plume of black smoke shot up into the air. Firefighters worked two and a half hours to control the fire.
In New Bedford, the fire department released photos of damage done by flames sparked by a lithium-ion battery that was being charged in the basement.
Six people were displaced by Wednesday’s fire on Hathaway Boulevard.
Lithium-ion batteries, which burn at a high heat, can reignite and release toxic chemicals, according to fire officials. They recommend storing scooters and e-bikes outdoors, charging the battery from a wall outlet instead of a power strip, recycling old batteries and not leaving a charged battery plugged in.
“Lithium-ion batteries are growing in use, and they power everything from pocket-sized devices to motor vehicles,” said State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey. “It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the manufacturer’s batteries and charging equipment rather than generic or aftermarket items.”
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