THE BATTERIES in an electric powered boat have exploded causing a manrina on the Grand Union Canal on Monday to be evacuated.
This was in Gayton Marina on the Grand Union Canal on Monday, also causing the canal to be cordoned off.
Lithium-ion batteries
Fire Fighters believe that batteries thought to be made up of lithium-ion were the cause of the explosion on the narrowboat, with the marina being evacuated.
A spokeswoman for the Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service told:
“It’s believed batteries thought to be made up of lithium-ion exploded, which then developed a fire within the boat.
“Firefighters used breathing apparatus and hose reel jets to extinguish the flames.
“Cordons were put in place to cover the canal path, due to smoke hazards, and the marina was evacuated."
Marina deemed safe
The fire service, upon leaving the scene, told that the marina has been deemed safe to return to.
The explosion was an unusual occurrence, and the findings of investigations into the incident will be shared with other services.
This incident will cause concern to those who run battery operated trip boats carrying members of the public.