A electric motorcycle caught fire in the middle of the street in Santiago de Cuba, a type of incident that is unfortunately becoming more common on the island.
The video of the incident was shared by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada.
No third-party damages or injuries were reported.
In recent months, multiple fires involving electric motorcycles have been reported in various provinces of Cuba, raising concerns among users and highlighting the need for stricter regulations and awareness campaigns regarding their safe use.
These vehicles have become essential due to fuel shortages and the decline of public transportation, but incidents related to their batteries have increased significantly.
On Wednesday, an electric motorcycle caught fire in the middle of the street in the city of Guantánamo.
One day prior, an electric motorcycle caught fire in the middle of Galiano Avenue, in Central Havana, causing explosions that disrupted traffic and alarmed passersby.
In the municipality of Mayarí, Holguín, another vehicle began to emit smoke minutes after being parked, eventually becoming engulfed in flames. The quick response from firefighters and neighbors prevented a more serious tragedy.
A month earlier, a fire caused by an electric motor in Guantánamo was attributed to a battery that had been recently repaired, which raised again the issue of the risks associated with informal modifications to this equipment.
Also in Holguín, the explosion of a motorbike inside a home caused significant material damage and raised alarms about the lack of technical control regarding the domestic use of these vehicles.
In a more tragic case, an elderly man lost his life in Sancti Spíritus after a fire caused by a small motorbike that exploded inside his home in Zaza del Medio, with neighbors unable to rescue him in time.
Among the most common causes identified by experts and firefighters are prolonged charging, poor battery quality, informal repairs, and the lack of safety standards in the storage of this equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Electric Motorcycle Fires in Cuba
Why do electric motorcycles catch fire in Cuba?
Electric motorcycles in Cuba catch fire mainly due to battery issues, including prolonged charging, poor quality, informal repairs, and a lack of safety regulations in their storage. The reliance on these vehicles, in light of the public transport crisis and fuel shortages, has heightened the risk of tragic incidents.
What are the recommendations to prevent fires from electric motorcycles?
To prevent electric motorcycle fires, it is advisable to conduct regular maintenance with qualified personnel, avoid overloading outlets, not charge the batteries overnight, and keep the motors away from flammable materials. It is crucial to adhere to safety regulations to preserve life and peace in Cuban households.
How common is the problem of electric motorcycle fires in Cuba?
The issue of electric motorcycle fires in Cuba is alarmingly frequent. Although the government does not publish official statistics, reports on social media and independent media document dozens of incidents each year, some with fatal consequences, raising concern among both the population and the authorities.
How does the lack of regulations affect electric motorcycle fires?
The lack of strict regulations in Cuba significantly affects the safety of electric motorcycles. The absence of clear standards regarding the quality of the equipment and its batteries has led to dangerous practices, such as informal repairs and the use of low-quality parts, increasing the risk of fires and explosions.
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