Aftermarket charging lead and travel adapter cause electric vehicle fire

Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to a garage fire at 9.12am on Orchard Street, Glen Waverley after callers to Triple Zero (000) reported an electric vehicle fire.

Firefighters arrived on scene within five minutes to find a garage, 10m by 5m, involved in flames.

Two people and a dog evacuated the property before firefighters arrived.

FRV crews wore breathing apparatus to battle the blaze, and the scene was deemed Under Control at 9.20am.

Crews remained at the scene for several hours to knock down the fire and clear the structure of smoke.

The power company also attended.

The Fire Investigation Unit (FIU) was requested to attend to help determine the cause.

The FIU determined the fire was not caused by the electric vehicle but from a travel adapter connected to an aftermarket charging lead.

BACKGROUND:

FRV firefighters are responding to almost one fire each day caused by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

The reasons rechargeable lithium-ion batteries can catch fire include:

Overcharging or use of non-compatible charging equipment; overheating; physical damage including crushing, piercing or vibrations; and, short-circuiting, battery cell malfunctions or system faults

To minimise your risks of a fire caused by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, FRV recommends:

Purchase products from a reputable supplier and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Only charge items in rooms with smoke alarms. Charge away from doors and escape routes so you can safely exit a property if your product catches alight.

Only use chargers and cords that are originally supplied with that device. Using chargers with incorrect power delivery (voltage and current) can cause damage to the battery or overheating that can lead to fires.

Only use batteries that are designed for that device.

Check that chargers have the Regulatory Compliance Mark, to show that they meet the relevant Australian Standards.

Avoid charging on soft locations such as couches, beds and carpets.

Don’t use batteries or devices that show signs of swelling or bulging, leaking, overheating, or signs of mechanical damage.