2 firefighters injured in blaze at Queens E-bike shop
RICHMOND HILL, Queens (WABC) -- At least two firefighters suffered minor injuries while fighting a fire at an E-bike shop in Queens on Monday.
The fire was reported at 102-44 Jamaica Ave by 104th Street in Richmond Hill just after 2:30 p.m.
The blaze was under control by 3:30 p.m. and the injured firefighters were taken to Jamaica Hospital.
Officials believe the blaze was started from a lithium-ion battery.
Carmen Charles lives above the E-bike store. She says all her possessions are destroyed.
"I have nowhere to go. Everything gone," Charles said.
"When these things start, there is no putting it out, so that's why the fires you see throughout the city. When these e-batteries do explode, you have significant fire condition," said Chief Daniel Brown.
A neighbor believes some of the batteries were charging in the back when one ignited. The burnt bike carcasses are now dumped in the street and any salvageable batteries were packed in special chemicals and in sealed drums so they cannot explode
Lithium ion battery explosions are a growing concern. So far this year, there have been two deaths and more than 40 injuries in New York City from these fires.
The blaze comes a week after officials in New York City introduced legislation in an effort to prevent fires sparked by lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion battery explosions are now the third leading cause of fires in New York City after smoking and open flames, according to the FDNY.
ALSO READ | New legislation introduced in New York City to help prevent lithium-ion battery fires
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