The Key West Fire Department has seen an alarming upward trend in the number of fires on the island. In 2021, there were 20 fires. So far this year, in just four months, there have been 17.
One of the newer threats to fire safety is e-bikes and other lithium-ion batteries. The Fire Department has responded to two separate fires related to e-bike batteries in less than two weeks.
Fire Marshal Capt. Jason Barroso wants to remind e-bike owners to follow the manufacturer's safety instructions for charging and storing them. These batteries can overheat, catch fire or even explode, causing the possibility of injuries, fires, and deaths.
"With the increased uptick in fires," said Capt. Barroso, "it's a good time to remind the community to check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are safe and in working condition."
The Fire Department receives annual donations of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and any Key West resident who needs help with this can contact the Fire Department at 305-809-3933 or click here to email us.
For more vital safety tips, click here to be directed to the National Fire Protection Association page.
