Fire official expresses concern about the hazards associated with lithium batteries, which “don’t go out as easily as other fuel sources”

Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW) is investigating the cause of a destructive fire that consumed a two-story e-bike factory in the Inner West of Croydon, Sydney, on Jan. 5.

FRNSW Superintendent Joshua Turner expressed concern about the hazards associated with lithium batteries and electricity storage units within the e-bike repair center. “Crews found it was an e-bike repair center, so the risk of lithium batteries and storage units of electricity was their primary concern. Lithium batteries maintain a high level of heat when they’re on fire, and they don’t go out as easily as other fuel sources. Fire rescue is doing a lot of work in researching lithium batteries and the effect it’s going to have on firefighting in the future,” he said.

According to reports, the fire originated in a small building behind a row of shops on Elizabeth Street. More than 60 firefighters and 15 fire trucks from the FRNSW battled for over two hours to control the fire, which started at 5 a.m.

The firefighters tackled the flames from the outside of the e-bike factory due to concerns about a potential structural collapse. The footage and photos captured the ferocity of the flames as it engulfed and scorched e-bikes within the factory.

Police were also present at the scene to ensure the safety of nearby residents. Superintendent Trent Lawrence suggested that it is too early to determine the cause of the fire.

“There may be some power interruptions for some of those local residents. There are some houses at the rear; there may be some exclusion zones for residents, but only minors at this stage; and we have police on the scene assisting with road closures,” he said.

Fires related to electric vehicles on the rise