In a concerning incident early Monday, fire officials in San Francisco reported that a blaze at a commercial warehouse was ignited by lithium-ion batteries from power tools.
The San Francisco Fire Department indicated that firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire located on the 1200 block of Connecticut Street shortly before 3 a.m. on Monday. Upon arrival, they encountered a two-story warehouse engulfed in flames and successfully confined the fire to a specific area before extinguishing it with reported swiftness.
Following the initial response, fire officials remained onsite to investigate the fire's cause, which they conclusively determined to be accidental, tracing the ignition point directly to the lithium-ion batteries used in power tools.
No injuries were reported in this incident, a relief amidst the rising trend of battery-related fires in San Francisco.
Recent insights from the San Francisco Fire Department highlight alarming statistics regarding lithium-ion battery fires; incidents have escalated from just 2 in 2017 to a staggering 15 by 2021. Notably, the department has noted at least one fatality related to such fires in 2022 and has recorded a constant threat, with projections of additional occurrences as the year progresses.
Fire officials stress profound safety concerns; they warn that damaged or improperly charged batteries can lead to "explosive fires." It is suggested that the public consistently checks for UL certification on batteries and observes safe charging and storage practices. These recommendations align with the city's movements toward stricter regulations for e-bikes and scooters powered by lithium-ion cells.
The rapid response to this warehouse fire reflects the ongoing emphasis within the fire department on training for incidents involving lithium-ion batteries. Recent interagency readiness drills have included scenarios centered around battery-related mishaps, showcasing a commitment to swift action in the face of such threats.
This incident clearly aligns with a troubling pattern of lithium-ion battery-related fires in San Francisco, highlighting the critical need for awareness and adherence to safety guidelines concerning these power sources.
As outlined by fire safety experts, adhering to proper safety protocols is crucial:
