PARK RIDGE, IL – The Park Ridge Fire Department responded to a call on Thursday, Feb. 1, at 7:02 a.m., regarding a report of smoke in a single-family home located at 19 S. Home St. Upon arrival, firefighters found dark black smoke coming from the basement of the residence.
The residents informed the firefighters that they suspected a battery explosion in the basement, prompting the fire crews to upgrade their response to a confirmed fire. Additional fire companies from neighboring departments were called to the scene for support.
Park Ridge crews quickly entered the house and extinguished the fire in the basement before it could spread. Simultaneously, mutual aid fire companies performed a search of the home to ensure all occupants were safe and ventilated the structure.
Assistance was provided at the scene by fire companies from Des Plaines, Niles, and North Maine fire departments, as well as the Rosemont Public Safety Department. Additionally, mutual aid crews from the Elk Grove, Schiller Park, and Wheeling fire departments supported Park Ridge fire stations.
An investigation by Park Ridge fire investigators, with assistance from the MABAS Division Three Fire Investigation Team, determined that the fire originated in the basement from a lithium ion e-bike battery that exploded while being charged.
The estimated damage to the home was $150,000, prompting the Park Ridge Fire Department to remind the public about the potential risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. Executive Officer Paul Lisowski urged individuals to purchase devices that have been tested by a qualified testing laboratory and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Additionally, he advised individuals to be vigilant while charging these batteries and to call 911 if they notice any unusual behavior from the battery or device.
The incident serves as a crucial reminder of the potential hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries, highlighting the importance of proper usage and maintenance to prevent accidents.