The Vancouver Fire Department called the hazmat team Monday to deal with a fire in the battery of an electric scooter, according to a statement from the agency.
Vancouver firefighters responded about 11:40 a.m. to 1618 N.E. 107th Ave. for a report of an electric scooter on fire next to a field in a residential area.
The first crews to arrive at the scene just west of Interstate 205 and south of 18th Street called the HazMat Team Leader.
“The scooter appeared to be experiencing a thermal runaway in the battery compartment which resulted in a small fire and off-gassing from the cells,” according to the agency statement.
Smoke produced from some battery fires can be toxic and flammable.
Hazmat members in chemical protective suits and self-contained breathing apparatus moved th e scooter to a salt-brine container to cool the device and discharge the remaining power in the battery.
To reduce the chance of scooter battery fires, always use approved batteries, chargers and follow manufacturer instructions, the fire department said in the statement. Store scooters away from flammable materials, exits and ensure they are not left unattended while charging.
Any signs of battery damage, including swelling, leakage or overheating can be indications of an imminent issue. Stop using the scooter and get away from it.
