The Holguin Fire Department, through Major Alfredo Mayolina Hernández, has issued an official statement warning of an increased risk of fire and explosion. Associated with the use, charging, and storage of electric scooters in residential homes. The provincial institution released this document as a preventive measure. Aiming to encourage the public to adopt safe practices before an incident occurs.
As Mayolina Hernández explained, the lithium batteries that power these vehicles can fail or become overloaded without warning. In such cases, they ignite with such speed and toxicity that the time available for people to react is reduced to a minimum.
The officer noted that this characteristic makes electric scooters a risk factor that has grown quietly within communities. Necessitating a review of how they are charged and stored at home.
Moreover the statement outlines four specific recommendations. The first is to keep escape routes clear. These vehicles should not be parked or charged in hallways, on stairways. Or in front of exit doors, as any obstruction in these areas could hinder evacuation during an emergency.
The second recommendation warns against bringing electric scooters to the upper floors of buildings or homes. As, in the event of a fire, smoke rises through the stairwells. Turning them into a dangerous path for the entire structure.
Also the third point concerns responsible charging: avoid leaving the vehicle plugged in overnight without supervision. Do not use generic (non-original) chargers, and do not exceed the charging time recommended by the manufacturer.
The fourth point appeals to the judgment of families, reminding them that each electric scooter belongs to an individual. Yet an imprudent decision can affect an entire household.
Official statistics indicate that, in the year to date, the country has recorded more than 300 incidents involving lithium batteries. Since 2019, there have been approximately 3,000 fires linked to these vehicles. Resulting in around 200 casualties including both fatalities and injuries. More than 67 percent of these incidents occurred between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. precisely when families are asleep.
This situation explains why the appeal from Major Alfredo Mayolina Hernández goes beyond a mere technical warning; it is a direct call to action.
Checking where an electric scooter is parked, how and when it is charged. Ensuring that escape routes remain clear are simple steps that can make the difference between a close call and a tragedy.
Prevention, the officer emphasized, is not just a bureaucratic procedure or an institutional formality. It is an act of shared responsibility. Every family that corrects a bad habit protects its own home. At the same time, protects its neighbors.
The Holguin Fire Department reaffirms its commitment to supporting this effort. While stressing that no institution can replace individual awareness. Community safety begins at every doorway, in every hallway, and with every charger that is unplugged on time.
By: Daimy Peña Guillén
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