Blazing Vape Battery Sparks Harlesden Shop Fire
In the early hours of Wednesday, six fire engines and 40 firefighters raced to a blazing shop fire in Harlesden, North West London. The ground-floor shop was engulfed in flames, with flats looming directly above. Miraculously, no injuries were reported.
Fire Devastates Shop, Damages Flats Above
The inferno erupted around 3:16 a.m., quickly ravaging the shop and spreading smoke damage to the two flats above and two neighbouring flats. Firefighters battled hard and had the blaze under control by 4:32 a.m., preventing further catastrophe.
Faulty Vape Battery to Blame
London Fire Brigade revealed the cause was a lithium battery failure inside a vape device. This incident shines a harsh light on the hidden fire dangers lurking in vaping products, especially faulty or fake units.
How to Vape Safe: Firefighters’ Top Tips
- Buy genuine: Stick to reputable retailers and avoid dodgy counterfeit devices that spike fire risks.
- Read the fine print: Follow all product instructions and heed any safety warnings closely.
- Store wisely: Keep e-liquids out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental spills or hazards.
- Keep distance: Never vape near medical oxygen, emollient creams, or airflow mattresses; these can fuel fires.
Authorities warn everyone to take these safety precautions seriously to prevent fires like this one from igniting again.
