Lithium-Ion Battery Failure Causes Serious House Fire

A family is recovering after a serious house fire in Hucknall that was caused by the failure of a lithium-ion battery being charged overnight.

Firefighters from Hucknall, Stockhill and Ashfield Fire Stations, together with colleagues from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service's Ilkeston Fire Station, were called to the incident at 1.41am yesterday morning (Thursday 17 September).

When crews arrived, three occupants had already escaped from the property. Firefighters were faced with a well-developed fire affecting the ground floor of the home.

All three occupants were treated at the scene by East Midlands Ambulance Service before being taken to hospital. Two men suffered smoke inhalation, while a woman in her 60s suffered smoke inhalation and other injuries sustained from a fall during the incident. All three occupants are expected to make a full recovery.

A joint fire investigation carried out yesterday afternoon confirmed that the fire was caused by the failure of a lithium-ion battery that was being charged overnight. The battery was powering a self-built e-bike conversion and had been purchased second-hand via Facebook Marketplace.

The fire caused severe damage to the property, although no neighbouring homes were affected.

Group Manager of Community Safety and Engagement, Richard Leighton, said: "This was a significant fire that could easily have had a much more serious outcome.

"Lithium-ion batteries can pose a serious fire risk if they become damaged, are modified, are charged incorrectly, or are used with products that have been altered from their original design.

"We're reminding people to take extra care when purchasing batteries or conversion kits online, particularly second-hand items, as it can be difficult to know their history, condition or whether they meet appropriate safety standards.

"Where possible, people should use manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers, avoid charging batteries overnight while asleep, and ensure they have working smoke alarms on every level of their home."

Firefighters will be carrying out reassurance visits and Safe and Well Checks in the local area following the incident.

E-bike and e-scooter battery safety advice: 

• Only use manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers.
• Avoid charging batteries overnight or when you are asleep.
• Never leave batteries charging unattended for long periods.
• Do not cover chargers or batteries while charging.
• Store batteries away from escape routes such as hallways and doorways.
• Stop using a battery immediately if it becomes hot, swollen, damaged or starts making unusual noises.
• Ensure your home is fitted with working smoke alarms and test them regularly.