‘Volatile’ e-scooter battery linked to fire
Four people have escaped an intense house fire in Sydney’s northern beaches, with police investigating whether an e-scooter on charge caused the blaze.
Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters were called to the blaze on Ronald Ave, in Narraweena, shortly after 4am on Thursday.
On arrival, crews discovered smoke billowing from the single storey home.
After firefighters were prevented from entering the house because of the collapsing roof and extreme heat, they adopted a defensive strategy to contain the flames.
Three of the four residents were treated by paramedics at the scene, with one person being transported to hospital for burns to a foot.
‘Volatile’ e-scooter battery linked to fire
FRNSW duty commander Inspector Steven Perkins said the four residents had an incredibly lucky escape.
“All early indicators are pointing to an e-scooter on charge inside the house as the possible cause,” he said.
“The nature of lithium-ion battery fires is extremely volatile.
“When these devices fail, they tend to do so extremely quickly and with great intensity.
“Despite how quickly the fire took hold, our crews successfully prevented it from spreading throughout the entire home to neighbouring properties.”
Owners of e-bikes, e-scooters and mobile devices are being reminded to show extra caution around lithium-ion powered devices.
When buying, using or charging lithium-ion products, FRNSW advises the public to: