A house fire last night (Thursday 29 August) was probably started by a rechargeable lithium battery, according to East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.
Six fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to tackle the blaze which badly damaged the first floor and roof of a property in the Hampden Park area of Eastbourne.
A woman was treated by paramedics at the scene, in Woburn Way, and neighbours were urged to keep their doors and windows closed.
The first 999 call was made at about 9.40pm and the fire was under control by midnight although a “stop” message was not sent until just after 7.30am this morning.
The fire service said: “East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were called at 9.42pm this evening to reports of a fire at a residential property in Woburn Way, Eastbourne.
“We have six appliances on scene, with support of the aerial ladder platform.
“Crews have been using breathing apparatus with two main jets and one hose-reel jet to tackle the fire located on the first floor and loft space.
“All persons have been accounted for.
“Police and ambulance service are also on the scene. Please avoid the area.
“One female has been passed into the care of the ambulance service.”
Shortly before midnight, the fire service said: “One property has been seriously affected by the fire.
“Crews have worked hard to ensure the fire is now under control.
“Locals are encouraged to keep windows closed and we still request that the area is avoided while emergency services are at the scene.
“We will remain in attendance for some time.”
An update shortly after midnight said: “The likely cause of the fire was due to a lithium battery from a segway charger.”
The fire service urged anyone with similar products, including electric bikes and scooters, to read its safety advice.
Six fire appliances were sent to the scene and, at different times, they included two each from Eastbourne and Bexhill and one from Pevensey, Seaford, Hastings, Heathfield and Lewes.
As well as an aerial ladder platform, the fire service sent a command support unit and five officers to deal with the blaze.
