To mark the start of Fire Prevention Week, the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service is warning the public.. about the hidden fire risks.. posed by lithium battery devices.., now found in almost every home.
The message.. formed part of this year's theme.. and was highlighted.. during a church service at the Fire Prevention Administration Building.. in Lange Park, Chaguanas.
Camerawoman Kerry Patrick was there, and reporter Cindy Raghubar-Teekersingh
00:00In your pocket, sometimes underneath your pillow, is one of many lithium-ion powered devices which carry a fire risk that's both dangerous and preventable.
00:13At the launch of the Fire Service's Fire Prevention Week-themed charge into fire safety, lithium-ion batteries in your home, fire officers warned of the immense energy household everyday lithium-powered devices contain, which, if not cared for properly, can lead to fatal fires.
00:33Their widespread adoption, along with inherent design flaws and improper usage, has resulted in a concerning rise in fires and related accidents.
00:47Consumer products, laptops and mobile phones link to 199 fatalities and over 2,100 injuries.
00:55Electric vehicles associated with 103 fatalities and 192 injuries.
01:01Acting Fire Chief Hutchinson says these figures are global statistics, and in the absence of local data, vigilance is equally important to avoid similar incidents locally.
01:15Battery fires can be particularly hazardous due to a phenomenon known as thermal runaway,
01:22Wherein the battery's internal chain reaction generates extreme heat, releases toxic gases, and poses significant risks of explosion and re-ignition.
01:36He issued a few precautions that people can take to ensure these types of fires are prevented.
01:43Charged safely. Use the original charger provided by the manufacturer and charge batteries on a hard, non-flammable surface, such as concrete or tile, distancing them from exits and combustible materials.
02:01Charging batteries on soft surfaces, such as beds or sofas, or in the proximity of curtains, should be avoided.
02:10The fire service warns that devices should never be left charging unattended or overnight.
02:18Phones, under pillows, trap heat, and swollen, dented or overheating devices are clear warning signs that can endanger lives.
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