Overview
- A two-alarm fire started on the 20th floor of 860 Harrison Avenue and activated the building sprinkler system, prompting the evacuation of about 40 residents.
- Investigators determined the fire was caused by a lithium-ion battery from an electric scooter and two residents were taken to hospital with minor smoke-related injuries.
- Firefighters hauled hose lines up through the building to reach the blaze and used sprinkler water to knock down flames before crews secured the scene.
- Hazmat teams assisted in removing the burned scooter, placing it in a bathtub and using barrels to contain the damaged battery to prevent reignition.
- Boston Fire Chief Brian Tully warned these batteries can produce chain reactions, require large amounts of water and time to control, and may force changes in high-rise emergency tactics and resident safety practices.