New and Noteworthy from The New York Times, original article by April Rubin and Anne Barnard
In a fire that injured at least 38 people on Saturday, firefighters used ropes and dangled from a high-rise in Midtown Manhattan to rescue a lady who was trapped inside.
According to the officials, a lithium-ion battery in an electronic bicycle started the fire at 429 East 52nd Street. According to Chief Fire Marshal Daniel E. Flynn, at least five e-bikes were present in the apartment where the fire began.
Officials stated that they thought a resident of the apartment repaired bicycles and that they were looking into any possible illegal commercial activity.
About 200 fires in New York City this year have been caused by lithium-ion batteries, resulting in six deaths, he said.
These batteries can be found in hoverboards, electric scooters, and other micro-mobility vehicles. According to police, the fires started by the batteries are frequently severe and can spread swiftly to any nearby combustible materials.
No pedal or electric bikes were permitted past this point, according to a sign outside the residential building. Fire officials warned that anything using the potent lithium-ion batteries, not just those used in bicycles, could present a hazard.
A fire alarm should have been there, doors should not have been left open, the building's fire protection and design should have been adequate, according to officials. These and other unanswered questions will be examined as part of their probe.
Nearly a year ago, a fire in the Bronx claimed 17 lives after smoke entered via open stairway and apartment doors.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured due to someone else's careless, reckless or negligent actions, do not hesitate to reach out to the dedicated legal professionals at Trolman Glaser Corley & Lichtman.
New York Times Article:
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/05/nyregion/manhattan-high-rise-fire.html