Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
A PUMULA South maid is battling for her life in hospital after she was severely burnt when a lithium solar battery exploded and triggered a ferocious fire that gutted the room she was sleeping in.
The terrifying incident, confirmed by Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer Mhlangano Moyo, occurred just after midnight in a chilling reminder of the dangers of overcharged batteries.
“Solar lithium batteries overcharged and exploded. The maid, who was in the room where the fire was concentrated, suffered severe burns and was rushed to hospital. Another adult female and a six-month-old baby were also affected, mainly due to smoke inhalation,” said Moyo.
Firefighters from Nketa and Nkulumane fire stations responded swiftly after receiving a distress call, arriving within 10 minutes to contain the inferno.
Despite their heroic efforts, the fire destroyed property valued at ZiG168 800. However, thanks to the quick response, property worth a whopping ZiG906 400 was saved.
Moyo urged residents to exercise extreme caution when using solar systems, especially lithium batteries, warning that improper use could turn homes into ticking time bombs.
