Insurers see more house fires caused by electrical batteries
The total number of insurance claims resulting from fires at home is decreasing, but the number of fires caused by the batteries of electric vehicles, tools, tablets, and toys is on the rise, the Dutch Association of Insurers (VVV) reported. Last year, electric batteries were the suspected cause of 5 percent of house fires, compared to 3 percent the year before.
The insurers attribute the increase in battery fires to the rising number of electric bicycles and scooters, among other things, in the home. “It is important that people become more aware of the risks. This can prevent a lot of physical and emotional suffering and additional damage,” said Richard Weurding, the general manager of the (VVV).
The total number of house fires decreased from over 54,000 in 2022 to over 52,000 last year.
This year, the fire brigade will pay extra attention to safely charging electric bicycles and scooters during the National Fire Prevention Weeks. Insurers and the Dutch Burns Foundation will also participate.
According to the involved organizations, many people don’t know what to do if a battery in their home catches fire. The right thing to do is go outside and call the emergency services. Batteries contain dangerous substances and most people don’t have the right tools at home to take the thing outside. “If it is necessary to extinguish a battery, you are actually already too late and you need us,” the fire brigade said.
The VVV also pointed out the importance of preventing battery fires by properly maintaining the battery, using recognized charges, and hanging a smoke detector in the room where the battery is charging. The insurers also urge consumers to take out proper insurance when they bring an e-bike or e-scooter into their home.
