WEEKEND UPDATE – The investigation on scene wrapped up over the weekend.
Fire Chief John Whalen confirmed again that the cause of the fire was lithium batteries that exploded as they were charging.
A safety advisory is expected soon through the Ontario Fire Marshall’s office on the hazards of overcharging lithium batteries.
Two cats which were missing after the fire were also located later in the day.
ORIGINAL STORY – Quinte West firefighters are still on the scene of a stubborn fire on Bayside Drive reportedly caused by charging lithium batteries from earlier this afternoon.
Early in the noon hour, numerous 9-1-1 calls were made to Quinte West fire reporting a blaze at a house and deck on 17 Bayside facing the Bay of Quinte.
Fire Chief John Whelan stated the fire spread rapidly, which combined with the wind conditions, made battling it difficult for crews on scene.
Personnel from Stations 2, 3 and 5 were on scene, with support from Station 1.
No injuries were caused, but two cats have gone missing from the property and damage is estimated at around $900,000.
Crews remain on scene putting out hot spots.
