MELAKA: Preparations for the upcoming Lunar New Year were disrupted when a home in Taman Seri Rambai here was destroyed in a fire believed to have been sparked by an exploding power bank.
Klebang assemblyman Datuk Lim Ban Hong said the male victim, in his late 30s, told him that the fire initially broke out on Saturday morning (Jan 10) after the gadget exploded.
"The victim said he managed to extinguish the fire using a fire extinguisher before leaving for work, believing the situation was under control,” he said when interviewed here.
However, Lim said the fire reignited shortly after.
"At about 10.15am, neighbours noticed thick smoke billowing from the house and immediately alerted the Melaka Fire and Rescue Department,” he said.
Lim said firefighters arrived at the scene within five minutes and managed to bring the blaze under control by 10.50am.
“I was attending a charity programme when I received a call from a community leader informing me about the incident.
"Firefighters were still at the scene when I arrived,” he said.
Lim said the distressed homeowner, who wished to remain anonymous, explained that the power bank had been placed on a plastic table while charging when it exploded.
According to Lim, about 90% of the house was destroyed, while neighbouring homes were also affected by the blaze.
"Luckily, no injuries were reported in the incident," he said.
He advised members of the public not to assume a fire has been fully extinguished, especially when electrical appliances or gadgets are involved.
“In such situations, residents should immediately notify the Fire and Rescue Department to ensure the premises are completely safe,” he said.
Lim said he would assist the victim in applying for the state’s disaster relief aid, adding that the fire occurred as the businessman was making preparations for the upcoming Lunar New Year next month.
