A malfunctioning lithium battery sparked concern Friday morning in the WestJet executive lounge at Calgary International Airport.
Just before 10 a.m., fire crews were called to the airport after someone plugged a lithium-ion battery pack in to charge and it shorted, causing sparks and smoke.
The lounge was evacuated and isolated.
Nobody was hurt and damage was minimal, but the lounge needed to be ventilated.
Calgary Fire Department Battalion Chief Trevor Sommerfeld says the department is seeing an uptick in these kinds of incidents, particularly with after market parts like cords and charging ports.
He said using original manufacturer parts reduces the chance of explosions and batteries must always be inspected before charging.
In a media release issued Friday afternoon, The Calgary Fire Department offered a few lithium-ion battery safety tips:
- Only use ULC or CSA-approved batteries, chargers and cords;
- Don’t use any batteries that are hot, look swollen, are punctured or leaking or are emitting white or grey smoke;
- Avoid leaving batteries charging overnight …