Chesterton, Indiana – An electric bike fire in the Estates of Sand Creek refused to be tamed, requiring a battle against flames using nothing but a garden hose and time.
According to authorities it began the evening of Saturday, Sept. 2, the Chesterton Fire Department (CFD) sprang into action when a homeowner’s desperate call came in. At 7:17 p.m., the homeowner reported an ominous development: while their electric bike was charging, an odd smell and smoke filled the air. Reacting swiftly, they moved the bike to the driveway, but the situation took a dramatic turn as flames erupted.
Even after deploying three fire extinguishers, the relentless fire reignited repeatedly, posing a grave challenge for firefighters.
Facing an unconventional situation, firefighters resorted to using a garden hose from the homeowner’s premises to combat the flames, cutting the battery pack free from the electric bike and immerse it in a five-gallon bucket of water.
“The homeowner was advised by fire personnel that E-bikes, like electric vehicles, tend to reignite for many hours after a fire,” cautioned the CFD. “The homeowner was advised to keep the contents in the bucket filled with water overnight to prevent reignition.”
It was not until 7:46 p.m. that the CFD could finally clear the scene, having battled not only flames but the unpredictable nature of electric bike fires.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unique challenges posed by electric bikes and their batteries, which can prove to be stubborn adversaries in emergencies. Authorities urge electric bike owners to exercise caution, follow safety guidelines diligently, and remain vigilant to prevent similar episodes from igniting in their lives.
