Firefighters issue lithium battery warning after blaze tears through flat

Firefighters have issued a lithium battery warning after a fire broke out in a second floor flat yesterday afternoon.

Part of a four-roomed flat in Loughborough Park, Brixton was damaged by the fire. There were no reports of any injuries.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by a lithium battery.

A London Fire Brigade (LFB) spokeswoman said: “Lithium batteries store a significant amount of energy in a very small space. If that energy is released in an uncontrolled way, then a fire or explosion may result. 

“If there is overheating, crushing or overcharging, a fault can occur within which may cause the battery to catch fire and explode.

“Lithium batteries are susceptible to failure if incorrect chargers are used, so it’s important to always use the correct charger for the product and buy an official one from a reputable seller.”

The LFB was called at around 4.15pm and the fire was under control by around 6pm. 

Four fire engines and about 25 firefighters from Brixton, Peckham and Clapham fire stations attended the scene.

(Picture: LFB)