On 7th December, Kent Fire & Rescue were called to a house fire in Sheerness after an e-cigarette exploded due to an incompatible charger. Resident Terry Skinner explained, “I put my e-cigarette on charge and within the space of five minutes, it exploded.”
The Kent Fire and Rescue service suspected that the internal battery had burst and set light to the surrounding soft furnishings. Terry described opening the door to the bedroom and seeing it ablaze.
Fires caused by faulty or incorrect chargers
The use of a charger that did not fit the particular model or type of e-cigarette, caused incorrect voltage which triggered the initial explosion.
“It is something that could happen to anyone if the wrong charger is used for an electrical device.”, Said the KFRS Watch Manager, Andy Bridger-Smart.
The bedroom suffered 80% fire damage and the entire second floor had been affected by smoke. This incident exposes the horrors of an accidental house fire.
Andy, Kent Fire and Rescue Service warned, “We would urge people to make sure that they read the instructions that come with any equipment which is charged for any length of time. And not to use incorrect chargers when charging apparatus.”
Fully charged for 2015
How to prevent fires at home
- Install smoke alarms
- Regularly check that your smoke alarms are working
- Replace batteries when required
- Install an alarm on every floor of your home
- Read the instructions of electrical devices carefully
- Check all charging devices for damage before use
- Use the correct chargers for the correct model of device
Andy Bridger-Smart continued the safety advice, “The primary safety message that we would give is to ensure that you have working smoke alarms in your home. One for every level that are checked weekly to make sure they are working. They’re life savers, it is the only way you will be alerted of a fire at night.”
For complete protection this winter, install one of our burglar alarm systems with built-in smoke detection features.
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We have spent the last 30 years protecting homes and businesses from the threat of fire. We provide our clients with sound and unbiased advice on how to protect their property from fire and help to ensure they comply with the latest fire safety regulations ( For businesses).
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