Ocala Fire Rescue responds to lithium-ion battery fire

[Photo courtesy Ocala Fire Rescue]

At approximately 4:24 a.m. on Sept. 3, Ocala Fire Rescue’s Engines 1 and 4, Ladder 3, Rescue 1, Squad 7, Battalion Chief 11 and a safety officer responded to a structure fire at 100 NW 23rd Ave., Ocala.

A resident at Laurel Park Apartments had alerted authorities after detecting a smell of smoke coming from a neighboring unit.

Upon arrival, the crew of Engine 1 discovered smoke coming from the front second-floor window of a two-story unit. The Rescue 1 team conducted a primary search of the smoky unit, confirming there was no one inside, while an officer with the Ocala Police Department aided in evacuating the adjacent apartment units, the news release noted.

The Ladder 3 crew got no response from occupants of a locked unit and forced the door open. They found three minors sleeping in the apartment, which, while free from fire, shared a wall with the unit where the fire was reported.

The Engine 1 crew identified the source of the fire as a scorched lithium-ion battery attached to a scooter and quickly extinguished the smoldering fire with a water can.

An inspection by the fire marshal revealed that the battery ignited, leading to the fire spreading to nearby items, including other scooters and a sofa.

“The quick actions of attentive neighbors greatly contributed to the successful outcome of the incident,” the news release stated.

No injuries were reported.

Personnel with Marion County Fire Rescue also responded to the scene.

“Ocala Fire Rescue emphasizes the importance of safety when it comes to lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in many devices. These batteries can pose a risk if they malfunction. To prevent lithium-ion battery fires, the public is reminded to discontinue use if any of the following warning signs are observed: emitting an odor, changing color, excessive heat, altering shape, leaking or producing unusual noises. If safe, move the device away from flammable materials and call 9-1-1,” the release stated.

[Photo courtesy Ocala Fire Rescue]