West Lafayette Fire Department: Battery fires becoming more common | Local [Video]

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) — The rechargeable batteries that power common items like e-bikes, scooters and electric cars can pose a dangerous new threat to firefighters. 

West Lafayette fire officials say they’ve noticed a rise in battery fires in the area, especially with students on Purdue’s campus.

Lithium-ion battery fires from electric cars, bikes and scooters are on the rise. This problem is causing quite a challenge for firefighters.

Generally lithium batteries are safe and unlikely to fail, unless the batteries are damaged, not being charged correctly, have a defect or are being misused. Water may not prevent a battery from burning and spreading. Battery cells are known to explode and quickly spread. 

West Lafayette Assistant Fire Chief Tony Schutter says he has noticed an increase in fires with students charging their scooters and e-bikes inside their apartments. He also said electric cars have also posed a challenge to firefighters.

…