A fire which destroyed the roof and first floor of a Bromley home is believed to have been caused by the failure of a lithium-ion battery pack while it was charging.

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to Whitebeam Avenue on Friday, September 2 at 3.48am.

One man left the mid-terrace house before fire crews arrived but was treated for smoke inhalation by paramedics at the scene.

Crews from Bromley and Orpington fire stations brought the fire under control by 5.41am.

Part of the ground floor was also damaged in the blaze.

A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said: “Firefighters’ tips for charging safely.

“Always use the correct charger for the product and buy an official one from a reputable seller.

“Batteries can get warm during their use and it is advisable to allow them to cool down before attempting to re-charge as they could be more susceptible to failure.

“Batteries should always be charged on hard flat surfaces where heat can dissipate.

“Batteries can also pose a risk if they have been damaged, so try to ensure they are not getting knocked around while in use or while being carried as spares as this can increase the chance of damage to cells.

“You should always make sure you unplug your charger once it’s finished charging.

“Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when charging and we would advise not to leave it unattended or while people are asleep.

“Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a house fire on Whitebeam Avenue in Bromley.

“The roof and first floor of a mid-terrace house were destroyed by the blaze and part of the ground floor was damaged.

“One man left the property before the Brigade arrived.

“He was treated on scene for smoke inhalation by London Ambulance Service crews.

“The Brigade was called at 0348 and the fire was under control by 0541.

“Fire crews from Bromley and Orpington fire stations were at the scene.

“The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the catastrophic failure of a lithium-ion battery pack during charging.”

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