Daily Hampshire Gazette E bike battery explodes in Holyoke apartment prompting fire officials to issue safety advisory

around 11:30 PM on a Saturday night. The occupant, who has not been named, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries at a local hospital. The incident is currently under investigation by the Holyoke Fire Department and the Holyoke Police Department. The fire department received a call about the explosion at 11:30 PM on Saturday. The responding officers found that the fire had already started and was spreading quickly. The fire department responded with 8 fire trucks and deployed 6 firefighters to the scene. The officers and firefighters worked together to put out the fire and ensure the occupant’s safety. The fire was eventually extinguished, but not before it had spread to the apartment building’s ventilation system. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. The Holyoke Fire Department has stated that they are looking into possible causes, including the lithium-ion battery in the electric bicycle. The Holyoke Police Department is also assisting with the investigation. The police department is reviewing the occupant’s phone records and other evidence to determine if the explosion was intentional or accidental.

Causes of the Fire

The investigation revealed that the lithium-ion battery pack in the electric bicycle was the primary cause of the fire. The battery pack was not designed for outdoor use and was not properly secured, leading to the explosion.

Store larger devices, such as bikes or scooters, outside when possible.

Keep lithium-ion batteries away from heat sources, such as stoves or radiators.

Avoid overcharging lithium-ion batteries, as this can cause them to overheat.

Regularly inspect lithium-ion batteries for signs of damage or wear.Investigation Findings

The investigation also revealed that the owner of the electric bicycle was attempting to carry the lithium-ion battery pack outside when it exploded.