Bicycle battery caught fire and created dangerous smoke at a dormitory
A bicycle battery exploded in a dormitory in southwest Copenhagen, causing an evacuation and hospitalization of at least one person for smoke inhalation.
Copenhagen police responded to a fire incident at a dormitory early Thursday morning in southwest Copenhagen. The fire was caused by the explosion of a battery from an electric bicycle, leading to the evacuation of many residents. According to police chief Dyre SΓΈnnicksen, the incident occurred around 2:29 AM when multiple automatic fire alarms were triggered in the youth housing complex located at Molestien 10.
The emergency response involved the evacuation of several hundred individuals, many of whom were without proper clothing as they exited the building in haste. The nearby Scandic Hotel opened its doors to provide warmth and shelter while the fire department worked to control the situation. One individual was severely affected by smoke inhalation and was transported to Hvidovre Hospital for further examination, while others received immediate care from EMS at the scene.
The fire department confirmed that the cause of the incident was indeed the explosion of a bicycle battery. This alarming event raises concerns about the safety of lithium-ion batteries commonly used in electric bicycles, which can pose fire risks if not properly maintained or handled. The incident highlights the importance of following safety guidelines when using or charging such batteries to prevent similar occurrences in the future.