A fire at a storage depot in Beckenham is believed to have been caused by a charging grass strimmer after the lithium-ion batteries within its battery pack failed.

Staff returning to the depot on Manor Way saw smoke coming from the roof and called 999 at 2.47pm yesterday.

A small part of the single-storey building was damaged by the fire.

Two fire engines from Beckenham and Forest Hill stations attended the blaze, which was brought under control by 3.06pm.

Nobody was injured in the blaze.

London Fire Brigade has explained that batteries which have been over-charged, short-circuited, or submerged in water can pose a fire risk.

It is recommended that electronics are unplugged when they have finished charging and you should always use a charger from a reputable seller.

A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said: “Firefighters are reminding people of their charging safety tips after a fire at a depot on Manor Way in Beckenham.

“A small part of a single-storey building used for storage was damaged by fire.

“There were no reports of any injuries.

“The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the failure of lithium-ion batteries within a battery pack for a grass strimmer that was on charge.

“The Brigade was called at 1447 and the fire was under control by 1506.

“Two fire engines from Beckenham and Forest Hill fire stations attended the scene.

“The fire was discovered by staff returning to the depot who saw smoke coming from the roof.

“They then called 999.

“Batteries can present a fire risk if they’re over-charged, short-circuited, submerged in water or damaged, so it’s really important to protect them against being damaged and charge them safely.

“Unplug devices once they have finished charging and always make sure you use the right charger for your device.”

“Firefighters’ tips for charging safely -

  • “Always use the correct charger for the product and buy an official one from a reputable seller.
  • “Batteries can get warm during their use and it is advisable to allow them to cool down before attempting to re-charge as they could be more susceptible to failure.
  • “Batteries should always be charged on hard flat surfaces where heat can dissipate.
  • “Batteries can also pose a risk if they have been damaged, so try to ensure they are not getting knocked around while in use or while being carried as spares as this can increase the chance of damage to cells.
  • “You should always make sure you unplug your charger once it’s finished charging. Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when charging and we would advise not to leave it unattended or while people are asleep.”

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