Last updated: 09/07/2018, 6:19 PM

Safety warning after hoverboard catches fire while being used by a child

17/08/2017 19:08
Lambeth
Outdoor fire
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The Brigade is warning people to be careful when charging and using hoverboards after one caught alight while being used by a child in West Norwood.

Firefighters were called to Tannoy Square on August 1 after the self-balancing scooter burst into flames just minutes after it started being used.

The hoverboard was engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived at the scene but thankfully the child using the gadget was not injured.

Burnt hoverboard

Charlie Pugsley, Head of Fire Investigation at the Brigade, said: "Hoverboards might be the 'must –have' gadget but we have serious concerns that some products on sale which are non compliant, could be unsafe and pose a fire risk.

"We'd recommend using the National Trading Standards product safety checklist and keeping an eye on the Electrical Safety First's recall list.

"If you already own a hoverboard or are going to buy one as a present, never leave it charging unattended and do not charge it overnight.

"It's also important to ensure your home is fitted with a working smoke alarm on every level of your home and the safest option is to have those linked together.

The Brigade was called at 1908 on August 1 and the fire was under control at 1917. One fire engine from West Norwood fire station attended the scene.

Electrical safety

Many electrical fires can be avoided by following a few simple steps such as never using imitation electrical chargers or unplugging appliances when you are not using them.

The Brigade’s top electrical safety tips are:

  • Don't use imitation electrical chargers as they may be unsafe
  • Make sure electrical appliances have a British or European safety mark when you buy them
  • Unplugging appliances and chargers when you are not using them or when you go to bed helps reduce the risk of fire
  • For plugs that do not come fitted to the appliance, always check you're using the right fuse
  • Keep to one plug per socket
  • If you use an adaptor, use a fused 'in line' type. The adaptor or extension lead will have a limit of how much power it can safely provide so be careful not to overload sockets
  • Remember: scorch marks, flickering lights, hot plugs and sockets, fuses that low or circuit-breakers that trip for no obvious reasons could be signs of loose or dangerous wiring