A lithium battery in a remote control toy car sparked a garage fire in Teralba, prompting a safety alert. Fire and Rescue NSW teams rushed to Fishermans Drive following reports of a house fire. Despite the efforts of eight fire trucks and 32 firefighters, the blaze was contained to the garage of the two-storey home.
The fire, which occurred in the evening, led to the deployment of crews from various stations, including Mayfield West, Toronto, Cardiff, Cooks Hill, Tingira Heights, and Charlestown. Fortunately, the four residents in the house managed to evacuate safely and were unharmed. Fire and Rescue NSW superintendent Adam Dewberry noted that while the fire was mostly confined to the garage, the rest of the house suffered smoke damage.
According to Mr. Dewberry, the cause of the fire was attributed to a lithium battery in the toy car that had not been used for some time and was recently put on charge. He emphasized the importance of handling lithium batteries with caution, suggesting that old batteries be discarded and new ones purchased to mitigate fire risks.
The incident also required the presence of HAZMAT crews from Newcastle to manage batteries not directly affected by the fire. Precautionary measures included submerging adjacent batteries, such as those in power tools, in water to prevent them from breaking down and igniting.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the potential dangers posed by lithium batteries, despite their convenience. Experts advise that when dealing with such batteries, especially after prolonged storage, precautions should be taken, such as charging them outdoors or seeking professional assessment at hobby stores.
As the investigation into the Teralba garage fire continues, authorities stress the importance of battery safety and proper handling to prevent similar incidents in the future. The community is urged to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring the safe use and storage of lithium batteries to avoid potential fire hazards.
For more updates on this developing story and other safety alerts, stay tuned to local news sources and official safety advisories. Remember, a small precaution today can prevent a major disaster tomorrow.
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