Shed Fire Prompts Spring Battery Safety Warning

The fire is believed to have started from the battery of a robotic lawn mower that was charging inside the shed.

With Victorians becoming more active outdoors, in the garden and around the home as the weather warms up, extra care should be taken as mowers, power tools and other lithium-ion battery-powered equipment are used and charged more frequently.

Crews from Somerville, Tyabb, Somers and Baxter fire brigades responded to the incident on Friday 11 September.

Somerville Captain Josh Caron said lithium-ion battery incidents were becoming an increasingly common challenge for firefighters.

"Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere now and they're part of our lives, so it's about how we manage them and make sure we're charging them safely," Josh said.

"With spring here, people will be getting back outside and using things like mowers, power tools and other battery-powered equipment more often.

"Don't leave batteries charging unattended or overnight. Only use the correct charger for that product and if something is on charge, make sure you're around and able to act if something goes wrong.

"This incident just highlights how quickly a fire involving batteries could develop, particularly in sheds and garages where tools, equipment and other combustible materials may be stored."

Josh also encouraged people to consider installing interconnected smoke alarms in garages and sheds to provide an early warning if a fire starts.

When charging batteries CFA advises:

• Always use the correct manufacturer-approved charger.

• Avoid leaving batteries charging unattended or overnight.

• Charge in a well-ventilated area away from combustible materials.

• Never charge batteries on soft or flammable surfaces.

• Don't use batteries that are swollen, damaged, leaking, unusually hot or producing unusual smells or noises.

• Never use damaged chargers, leads or batteries.