SURREY, B.C. – A significant fire erupted at an e-bike store in Surrey, British Columbia, over the weekend, prompting an extensive response from local firefighters. The blaze was so intense that crews were forced to fight the flames from outside the building due to the overwhelming smoke density, which made it hazardous to enter.
Mike McNamara, the assistant chief of operations with the Surrey Fire Department, reported that a total of 36 firefighters and 12 fire trucks were deployed to combat the fire. The incident unfolded over several hours on Saturday night, ultimately resulting in the destruction of the business and causing damage to adjacent structures.
As the firefighters attempted to locate the fire's origin within the building, they encountered significant challenges due to the thick smoke and fire intensity. "They attempted to make entry, and they found that the smoke was extremely thick inside the building," McNamara explained. The situation escalated to a level of danger, leading crews to prioritize a defensive strategy from outside the establishment. By around 1 a.m., the fire was declared extinguished.
Visual evidence from the scene displays heavy plumes of black smoke and vibrant flames billowing from the roof of the store. Fortunately, while no serious injuries were reported, one firefighter required treatment for heat exhaustion during the incident.
The cause of the fire remains undetermined. McNamara indicated that the nature of e-bike and scooter batteries poses unique challenges for firefighting efforts. He emphasized that the lithium composition and various chemicals within these batteries complicate extinguishing efforts, as they do not easily suppress and generate extremely high temperatures, facilitating rapid fire spread.
In response to the growing concerns surrounding battery-related fires, the Surrey Fire Department has implemented educational initiatives aimed at enhancing safety awareness regarding e-bikes and e-scooters. Among the safety recommendations provided are avoiding the use of aftermarket chargers and ensuring that batteries are kept away from direct sunlight and hot environments, such as inside vehicles on warm days. These measures are crucial for preventing overheating and potential fire hazards.
This alarming incident reflects a broader trend of difficulties associated with fires ignited by e-bike batteries, underscoring the need for heightened safety measures and public awareness. The Surrey Fire Department continues to prioritize community education to mitigate risks related to these vehicles.
