A startling video that the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) has made public shows the horrifying moment that an e-bike’s lithium-ion battery burst, starting a destructive fire that quickly consumed a Queens store.
The disturbing video serves as a reminder of the risks that these batteries may offer, sparking a large fire and casting doubt on the security of such gadgets.
Before mayhem breaks out, the CCTV footage, which was shot inside the e-bike store on a Saturday night, shows an apparently normal scene. The video shows a crowded area full of mopeds, emphasizing how quickly and violently the battery explosion that caused a ferocious fire broke out.
When the FDNY arrived at the scene of the two-alarm fire, they discovered about two dozen e-bikes in flames.
Luckily, no civilians were hurt because the business was empty at the time. However, while battling the fierce flames, a firefighter suffered minor injuries.
Examinations revealed that the inferno originated from an e-bike’s lithium-ion battery. The video, which shows the battery being ignited at approximately 10:40 p.m., clearly illustrates the quick succession of sparks and explosions that quickly developed into a raging fire that quickly consumed the entire shop.
The FDNY recorded more than 130 fires connected to e-bikes and e-scooters in 2022 alone, as e-bikes become commonplace in New York City. Five people died and countless others were injured as a result of these occurrences, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety protocols pertaining to these often used electronic gadgets.
In order to reduce these hazards, authorities have emphasized the significance of following safety recommendations, such as the National Fire Protection Association in the US.
The FDNY has consistently warned locals about the possible risks associated with lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes, linking them to a significant increase in fire accidents that have occurred throughout the city.
