*** VISION ALERT *** Lithium-ion batteries contribute to intensity of townhouse blaze - Maitland
Published: 19 Mar 2025 04:36pm
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews have extinguished a fire in a townhouse in Mayfield, in the Hunter region.
Just before 2am, firefighters responded to Triple Zero (000) calls to a fire in a two-level building located on the corner of Maitland Road and Woodstock Street.
On arrival, crews were met by an intense and rapidly expanding fire in the complex of eight townhouses.
Fortunately, all occupants had self-evacuated with the assistance of neighbours.
Four of the occupants were transported by NSW Ambulance paramedics to hospital suffering smoke inhalation.
It took firefighters approximately one hour to contain the fire. Firefighters worked from an aerial ladder platform truck to remove roof sheets and fully extinguish the fire.
The townhouse was severely damaged by the fire and the cause is still being determined.
Quotes attributable to Superintendent Adam Dewberry:
"One adjoining unit suffered some damage, however, firefighters successfully prevented the fire from spreading to neighbouring residences.
"Several lithium-ion e-bike batteries that had gone into thermal runaway have been located on site, which no doubt contributed to the intensity of this blaze."
Media note: Footage of the scene is available here: https://vimeo.com/1067195771/603abd132e?share=copy [external link]
Updated: 19 Mar 2025 03:41pm
Related safety topics
It's important that we all understand the risks of lithium-ion batteries and be prepared if things go wrong.
The best way to keep you and your family safe is to prevent fires from occurring and know what to do in case of a fire.
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]
Stations nearby
14 Church Street, Maitland NSW 2320
Cnr Chelmsford Drive & Newcastle Street, East Maitland (Metford) NSW 2323
4 Anambah, Rutherford NSW 2320