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An explosion of electric motor scooter batteries caused a devastating fire this Tuesday in a home in La Borla, on Avenida de los Mártires in Camagüey, resulting in one fatality and another person injured, according to reports from neighbors and eyewitnesses.
The incident occurred around 12:30 PM, and some witnesses indicated that it was just as electricity service was being restored after a prolonged blackout in the area, reported the media La Tijera.
However, others report that the electricity service had still not been restored when the motorcycles exploded.
According to preliminary information, the couple residing at the address had left several scooters charging inside the house during the power outage.
The cause of the incident has not been specified; some report that an overload in the lithium batteries caused the explosion and started the fire.
“It was a nightmarish scene... everything was lost,” commented a distressed neighbor.
The husband managed to escape the fire, but his wife suffered severe burns as she was unable to get out in time. Although she was rushed to the hospital, she sadly passed away shortly after, unofficial sources confirmed.
Neighbors reported that the fire department took over 30 minutes to arrive at the scene of the incident, which sparked outrage and calls for accountability regarding the lack of preparedness and immediate response to emergencies of this nature.
“The community tried to help, but the fire was unstoppable. The lack of water and resources complicates everything. It was a tragedy waiting to happen,” said another resident.
This unfortunate incident once again highlights the risks associated with the domestic use of lithium batteries without safe conditions, as well as the vulnerability that many families face due to the instability of the electrical system and the inadequate emergency response infrastructure on the island.
In recent years, there have been frequent reports of fires caused by the charging of mopeds and electric bicycles, a situation exacerbated by prolonged power outages and voltage failures that compromise the safety of Cuban households.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Explosion of Motorbike Batteries in Cuba
What caused the explosion of the batteries in motorinas in Camagüey?
The explosion was caused by an overload in the lithium batteries of the motorinas, which were connected during a prolonged power outage. When the power was restored abruptly, an overload occurred, leading to the explosion and subsequent fire in the residence.
What are the risks of charging electric scooters in Cuba?
The risks include explosions and fires due to the improper handling of lithium batteries, charging during prolonged outages, and excessive charging time. The lack of regulations and certified spare parts exacerbates this situation, increasing the likelihood of fatal accidents.
What safety measures should be taken when charging mopeds?
It is crucial to allow the batteries to cool down for at least 30 minutes before connecting them to the power supply and to avoid overcharging them for more than 7 to 8 hours. Additionally, it is important to regularly check the condition of the batteries and follow safety recommendations to prevent overheating and explosions.
How has the Cuban government responded to the increase in motorcycle fires?
Until now, the Cuban government has not published official statistics nor has it implemented effective measures to regulate the safe use of electric scooters. The lack of institutional response has left the population in a vulnerable situation, forcing them to seek solutions on their own.
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