GRAVENHURST, ON – A charging laptop nearly caused a blaze at a special care home.
Firefighters from Station 1 were called just after 7:00pm Wednesday night when an alarm at the home, located on Muskoka Road North, was activated.
When crews entered they found a room full of smoke and charred contents. It was determined a charging laptop left on a pillow started the incident.
Fire prevention officer Breyan Sinnott said when charging electronics, consideration needs to be given to providing airflow and keeping items away from flammables such as fabric.
“Phones, tablets, and all personal electronic devices should be charged in locations that allow for adequate ventilation to prevent overheating,” said Sinnott. “Charging electronics on fabric or under a pillow does now allow for the heat produced to dissipate in the recharge process. When devices are charged on soft surfaces it may cause the fabric to catch fire.”
Damage was minimal thanks to quick thinking staff who detected the fire and closed doors immediately preventing the spread of smoke.
Sinnott said it is important to use the recommended charging cord and plug for a particular item to ensure safe charging.