Oakland, California – A lithium battery used to power a go-cart exploded during charging, causing a fire that damaged primarily the garage area of a residence in East Oakland on Sunday afternoon. Fire officials reported that the blaze broke out around 1 p.m. at a two-story home at the intersection of 19th Avenue and East 21st Street.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the fire, which required firefighters half an hour to bring under control. The incident resulted in the garage being gutted, as well as a small car parked inside being destroyed. Although other parts of the residence sustained smoke and water damage, firefighters were able to prevent the flames from spreading to the upper floor.
According to Fire Department spokesman Michael Hunt, the residents of the home, along with their pets, were displaced by the fire. However, they declined any assistance from the Red Cross. Investigators believe that the fire was accidental in nature, with the ignition likely stemming from a lithium go-cart battery that was being charged.
No specific estimate of the damage caused by the fire was provided. Despite the destruction, it is fortunate that no one was harmed in the incident. The quick response of the firefighters likely prevented further damage to the property.
As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, it serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by lithium batteries and the importance of safe charging practices in households. The incident highlights the importance of taking precautions when dealing with electronic devices powered by such batteries to prevent similar incidents in the future.