A mid-Island fire chief has an important safety message about battery-powered toys, after a personal close call.
Dashwood Fire Department Fire Chief Nick Acciavatti says on social media his house almost went up in flames after a lithium battery for an Airsoft gun exploded, setting clothes in the nearby closet on fire. It wasn’t even plugged in, he says.
“Although this product may had have a manufacturing defect that was unnoticeable, it’s a good reminder that even when you think a product is safe, to keep a close eye on them,” he says.
Thanks to working smoke alarms and a quick reaction, there was only minor damage, he says, but adds it’s a good reminder to be wary of lithium batteries, and to not leave them plugged in beyond their capacity. He says it’s also important to check them for any damage regularly.
Make sure your smoke alarms work and are less than 10 years old, and always have a working fire extinguisher handy, he adds.
