A recent shed fire in Fort Pierce has been linked to a lithium ion battery, according to preliminary findings by the St. Lucie County Fire District (SLCFD). The fire, which occurred on Wednesday evening, completely destroyed two sheds owned by resident Benton Tomlin, leaving significant damage and hardship.
Lithium Ion Battery Suspected in Fort Pierce Shed Fire
Homeowner Benton Tomlin described the terrifying incident, stating he initially heard a loud explosion. “Sounded like a bomb. Like a fire tractor, like a shotgun,” Tomlin recounted. Despite his efforts to extinguish the flames with a garden hose, the fire rapidly intensified, quickly engulfing both sheds. This incident highlights the risks posed by lithium ion batteries, similar to another recent event where a lithium ion battery caused a shed fire in Fort Pierce.
Tomlin, his wife, and their two dogs escaped unharmed, but the fire severely damaged their well, leaving them without running water. “I haven’t had a bath since yesterday,” Tomlin said, visibly shaken by the event.
Fire Marshal Highlights Lithium Ion Battery Risks
Fire Marshal Andres Elizondo from the SLCFD emphasized the potential dangers associated with lithium ion batteries. “Lithium batteries are all over the place,” Elizondo explained, adding that these batteries “tend to burn faster and hotter,” making firefighting efforts particularly challenging.
Safety Precautions for Lithium Ion Batteries
Elizondo provided key safety guidelines to prevent similar incidents:
- Avoid overcharging batteries.
- Charge batteries in safe, open areas, away from flammable materials such as beds or couches.
- Dispose of used lithium ion batteries properly at specialized recycling centers or household hazardous waste collection points.
Community Assistance Needed for Fort Pierce Homeowner
Tomlin expressed the emotional toll the incident has taken, describing the burned remains as “everything that I own.” He is now seeking assistance from the community to help clear debris and begin the recovery process. “I can use all the help in the world,” Tomlin appealed.
Ongoing Investigation by St. Lucie County Fire District
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation. The SLCFD continues to analyze the scene and gather evidence to confirm the involvement of the lithium ion battery conclusively. This incident comes shortly after another troubling event when a fire destroyed a cemetery building near Fort Pierce, Florida, raising community concerns about fire safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Pierce Shed Fire
What caused the shed fire in Fort Pierce?
The fire is believed to have been caused by a lithium ion battery, according to initial reports by the St. Lucie County Fire District. The investigation is ongoing to confirm the exact cause.
Are lithium ion batteries dangerous?
Yes, lithium ion batteries can pose fire risks if improperly charged, damaged, or disposed of incorrectly. They burn hotter and faster than other types of batteries, making fires difficult to control.
How can you safely charge lithium ion batteries?
Always charge lithium ion batteries in open, ventilated areas away from flammable items. Do not overcharge them, and avoid charging on soft surfaces like beds or couches. For more details, refer to the Lithium Ion Battery Safety Guidelines.
Where can residents dispose of lithium ion batteries in Fort Pierce?
Residents should take lithium ion batteries to specialized recycling centers or household hazardous waste collection points. Never place them in regular trash or recycling bins. For more information, visit the Lithium Ion Battery Disposal and Recycling page.
Can the community help the homeowner affected by the fire?
Yes, the homeowner, Benton Tomlin, has requested community assistance with debris removal and cleanup. Those interested in helping can contact local community groups or fire district officials for more information, such as Community Assistance Programs.
Recent fire incidents in the area, including a fire incident at a cemetery north of Fort Pierce, have heightened awareness and concern among residents about fire safety. For further reading on fire investigations, see the Fire Safety Investigation report.
Looking for detailed information on active adult communities in Port St. Lucie? Download our FREE comprehensive guide.
Port St Lucie Talks
