The fire service said the explosion was started when the lithium-ion battery in his pocket came into contact with another metal item. Photo / Youtube / WestYorkshireFRS
The fire service said the explosion was started when the lithium-ion battery in his pocket came into contact with another metal item. Photo / Youtube / WestYorkshireFRS
An e-cigarette has exploded inches from a child's pram in a shopping centre in Leeds, West Yorkshire.
Fire crews have released CCTV footage of when the device exploded in a user's pocket, according to the Daily Mail.
A man seems to be unaware of smoke coming from hispocket until a bright light appears and begins to spit and explode.
Shoppers are seen running for cover as sparks fly.
The fire service said the explosion was started when the lithium-ion battery in his pocket came into contact with another metal item, such as coins or keys.
The man was left with slight injuries and needed first aid treatment.
Fire investigator Jamie Lister said: "This footage clearly shows the dangers of storing batteries alongside any metal objects, be it keys, coins, or even your phone if it has a metal case.
"This is not the first time we have seen injuries caused by a lithium-ion battery exploding whilst being carried in someone's pocket. We really want the public to understand the risks which can be easily avoided.
"There does not need to be a fault with the battery, the problem is the incorrect storage of the batteries."
E-cigarette users have been warned to carry the batteries in a plastic case to prevent short circuiting.
Mr Lister said: "There has been a marked increase in the number of fires we have seen, attributable to the incorrect storage of batteries.
"The use of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries is now commonplace in modern society and that's why we want people to be vigilant because a simple mistake could have a devastating consequence."
