February 2, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

On Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 7:02 PM, the Park Ridge Fire Department (PRFD) was dispatched to single family home located at 19 S. Home St. for smoke in the building. The first PRFD unit arrived on scene at 7:06 PM and met the residents outside who stated they had a suspected battery explosion in the basement. PRFD crews made entry into the house where they were met with dark black smoke coming from the basement. They immediately upgraded the response to a confirmed fire which brought additional fire companies from neighboring fire departments to the scene. PRFD personnel stretched a hoseline into the house and extinguished the fire before it could spread from the basement. Mutual aid fire companies simultaneously performed a search of the home to ensure all occupants were out and ventilated the structure.

PRFD was assisted on scene by fire companies from the Des Plaines, Niles, and North Maine Fire Departments and the Rosemont Public Safety Department. Additionally, the Park Ridge fire stations were staffed by mutual aid crews from the Elk Grove, Schiller Park and Wheeling Fire Departments and the Rosemont Public Safety Department.

PRFD fire investigators were assisted by other members of the MABAS Division Three Fire Investigation Team and determined the fire originated in the basement from a lithium ion e-bike battery that exploded while being charged. Damage to the home is estimated to be $150,000. PRFD would like to remind everyone that lithium-ion batteries can overheat, explode, or catch fire. It is critically important to purchase devices that have been tested by a qualified testing laboratory and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. While charging these batteries, if you notice any different odor, color change, leaking or strange noises coming from the battery or device, stop charging or using the device immediately and move it away from anything flammable if possible. You can always call 911 and PRFD will respond immediately to assist you with any suspected lithium-ion battery emergency.

Contact: Executive Officer Paul Lisowski
plisowski@parkridgefd.org