E-cig battery explodes in man’s pocket
VICTIM’S LEGS AND HANDS BURNT
A MAN was badly burned after an e-cigarette battery exploded in his trouser pocket.
Firefighters have issued a safety warning following the incident which took place at a property on Dixon Drive, Shevington, near Wigan.
The man was left with burns to his legs, hands and right forearm.
He was taken to hospital in an ambulance.
Firefighters were called at 6.45pm and found a man lying on the floor in pain. The e-cigarette battery exploded while he was in the living room and left a burn mark, the size of a beer mat, on the carpet.
The man threw the device out of a window, which left him with further burns to his hands and right arm.
Fire crews also comforted a child and other family members who witnessed the explosion.
Glynn McGann, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service watch manager, said: “Having been called to a domestic emergency in Shevington I’m pleased to say GMFRS were quickly on the scene and made a swift assessment of the situation.
“Though there was nothing to extinguish it was important for us to assist the injured homeowner and his family who were clearly in some distress. “The gentleman had been in his lounge when the battery exploded in his trouser pocket, injuring both his thighs. Following this, the battery fell onto the floor, burning the carpet. The man then picked up the battery and threw it out of the house, in the process sustaining further injuries to both hands and his right arm. “You may not know, but every year 200 people die and 2,000 people are injured across Britain in fires that start in living rooms. Never put a battery in your pocket and make sure when storing them to do so safely.”
Fire chiefs are urging e-cigarette users to be vigilant when operating the devices.