A flat fire on Rathcoole Gardens in Hornsey prompted a swift response from the London Fire Brigade on Saturday morning, with six fire engines and approximately 40 firefighters called to the scene. The fire broke out in a mid-terraced house that had been converted into two flats, affecting half of the ground floor and part of the first floor.
Seven people evacuated the property before firefighters arrived, and fortunately, no injuries have been reported. The first emergency call reached the Brigade’s Control Room at 10:04 a.m., and crews from Hornsey, Holloway, Tottenham, and other nearby stations brought the fire under control by 12:20 p.m.
Investigators believe the fire was accidental, caused by the failure of a lithium battery in an e-bike that was being charged. The London Fire Brigade has issued safety tips for handling and charging lithium batteries to help prevent similar incidents:
- Allow batteries to cool before recharging, as they can become warm during use.
- Charge batteries on a hard, flat surface to allow heat to dissipate.
- Avoid using damaged batteries, as they can pose a greater fire risk.
- Do not expose batteries to extreme temperatures, which can increase the risk of failure.
- Watch for warning signs that a battery may be failing, such as unusual heat or swelling.
This incident highlights the potential risks associated with charging lithium batteries indoors. The Brigade urges residents to take precautions to prevent overheating and damage, ensuring safe charging practices.
