A massive fire broke out this morning in a shared garage within the Manuelita neighborhood of Santa Clara, located in Villa Clara province. Preliminary reports suggest that the blaze was likely triggered by an electric scooter stored at the site, which rapidly spread the flames to other parked vehicles, including a Lada, a motorcycle, and two cars known locally as "almendrones."
The fire brigade of Santa Clara responded swiftly and managed to contain the fire, successfully preventing any loss of life. Despite their efficient response, the incident resulted in significant material damage, impacting several modes of transport, with the extent of the damage still under assessment.
According to information shared on Facebook by government journalist Henry Omar Pérez, efforts are currently underway to ascertain the precise causes of the fire and to compile a detailed assessment of the damages incurred.
Electric Scooters: A Growing Risk
This event highlights the risks connected to the use and storage of electric scooters in confined spaces. While they have gained popularity in recent years due to their low energy consumption, such vehicles require proper maintenance and handling, particularly regarding their charging systems and batteries, to prevent accidents like this one.
Residents in the vicinity expressed their alarm at how swiftly the fire spread. This incident underscores the urgent need for stricter safety measures in areas where electric vehicles are stored, including regular technical inspections and the implementation of clear protocols to avert fires.
A Recurrent Issue in Cuba: Fires Involving Electric Scooters
This incident is not isolated but rather part of a troubling pattern of fires caused by electric scooters in Cuba in recent months. The explosion or malfunction of lithium batteries, used in these vehicles, has led to numerous fires resulting in material damage and even fatalities.
In September 2024, a scooter-related fire in Havana destroyed a mechanical workshop, resulting in substantial financial losses. That same month, a similar incident in a residence on Picota Street 59, between Acosta and Jesús María, led to a fatality in Old Havana.
In August, another related fire in Jovellanos, Matanzas, destroyed a home in Matanzas. The blaze occurred during the early morning hours in the Guma Alley between Mujica and San Gabriel. More recently, in November 2024, another scooter ignited in the center of Santiago de Cuba, impacting nearby vehicles.
A similar disaster took place in Las Tunas in December, where firefighters struggled to control the flames due to the rapid combustion of the batteries.
Understanding Electric Scooter Fire Risks in Cuba
What caused the fire in Santa Clara?
Preliminary reports indicate that the fire was likely started by an electric scooter stored in the garage, which caused the flames to quickly spread to other vehicles.
Why are electric scooters a fire hazard in Cuba?
Electric scooters can pose a fire risk due to the potential malfunction or explosion of their lithium batteries, which can cause fires if not properly maintained and handled.
What measures can prevent fires caused by electric scooters?
To prevent such fires, it is crucial to conduct regular technical inspections, ensure proper maintenance of charging systems and batteries, and implement strict safety protocols in storage areas.