The Local Government Association (LGA) – which represents all 49 fire and rescue authorities in England and Wales – has issued a nation warning to e-cigarette smokers to take care when charging their devices after a spate of fires and explosions.
Last year, West Midlands Fire Service issued a warning after one overheated and exploded in an office.
The e-cigarette had been left on a desk to charge via a computer USB port before exploding. Thankfully the man was away from his desk when the battery sprayed its hot contents towards where he had been sitting only a few minutes earlier.
Firefighters in Englands and Wales have been called to 113 e-cigarette-related incidents since 2012.
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, chair of the LGA’s Fire Services Management Committee, said: “The recent spate of fires connected with e-cigarettes is highly disturbing and we are issuing a nationwide alert to users to be vigilant at all times.
We are warning them that it is simply not worth risking their lives to save a few pounds by buying dodgy, dangerous or incompatible chargers.
Tragically, at least one life appears to have been claimed and more fatalities could follow unless users become more aware of the risks and take sensible precautions”
E-cigarette smokers are urged to follow the following safety tips:
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe charging, use and disposal.
- Charge the device on a flat, solid and stable surface, such as a kitchen worktop.
- Keep the device away from flammable or combustible materials when charging.
- Never leave the device on a bed or close to soft furnishings, or in a cluttered space.
- Don’t exceed the recommended charging time, or leave unattended for any significant length of time – eg overnight while you’re asleep, or if you go out.
(Image: WMFS)
