Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper): A fire in Ghent on Boxing Day was caused by an electric bike battery, and seven people were hospitalised for smoke inhalation. Lieutenant Brecht Vandeburie warns of rising battery-related incidents and urges safety measures like proper charging and ventilation.
On Boxing Day, a fire broke out in an apartment building on Lange Steenstraat in Ghent. The fire caused a lot of damage and sent seven people to the hospital for smoke inhalation. It started in the stairwell when the battery of an electric bike caught fire, quickly filling the area with thick smoke. Residents were caught off guard by how fast the fire spread, leaving them with little time to escape. Emergency services responded quickly to stop the fire and rescue those trapped inside, raising concerns about the risks of battery-powered devices in homes.
How can residents prevent battery fires from electric bikes in Ghent?
The fire department has noticed a worrying rise in battery-related incidents, especially with electric bicycles, according to Lieutenant Brecht Vandeburie from the Fire Zone Center. He mentioned that this trend is likely due to more people using electric bikes and other battery-powered devices. While these tools are convenient and eco-friendly, they also come with specific dangers. If a battery catches fire, it can spread quickly and release harmful gases, making smoke spread faster. This creates very dangerous situations, especially in tight spaces like apartment stairwells, where smoke can block escape paths.
Lieutenant Vandeburie is warning people to be careful with battery-powered devices to avoid accidents. He suggests that residents should not overcharge their devices, use proper chargers, and keep batteries in safe spots with good airflow. The recent event in Ghent shows how a small problem can quickly become a big danger. It also points out the need for building safety features, like smoke alarms and fire-resistant materials, to help people escape safely. As more people use electric bikes and similar devices, fire departments ask for better rules and more education to prevent future issues.
