Overcharged Battery Causes Structure Fire

Grand Island, Neb. — A lithium-ion battery sparked a Tuesday morning house fire after being left on its charger for approximately 3-4 consecutive months.

On Tuesday, April 15, the Grand Island Fire Department dispatched to a structure fire at 8:39 a.m. Once on scene, crews identified visible smoke coming from a single family dwelling located at 1219 West 9th Street.

After making entry to the home, crews found an active fire in the living room and extinguished the flames in approximately five minutes. All occupants of the home had made it outside safely by the time GIFD crews arrived. Immediately, the crews cleared the home of smoke and investigated for any fire extension into the walls or ceiling.

An ensuing investigation determined the fire was accidental and electrical in nature. The occupants left a lithium-ion battery on its charger for approximately 3-4 months, causing it to overcharge and overheat. That combination led to the battery exploding and igniting items located in close proximity.

Damages are estimated around $40,000 and include both structural damage as well as personal property loss. There are no injuries to report from the incident.

To learn more about lithium-ion battery risks and response strategies, please visit: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/a-z/lithium-ion-batteries/risks-and-response-strategies/.