Couple and dogs die in Coventry house fire caused by e-bike battery; officials describe horrific scene and issue safety warnings.
The fire started with an e-bike battery in the hallway. It spread very fast, going up the stairs. The bedroom door was open.
A firefighter named Dell Haughton responded to the scene, saying it was terrible. The house was full of smoke, and the heat was intense. Everything inside the house was burning: steps, walls, ceilings, and doors.
Haughton also saw the couple’s dogs, noting it was one of the worst fires he’d seen. An inquest called their deaths accidental.
Fire services made a film to urge people to be careful with e-bikes. The couple and their dogs died at the scene. Natasha’s sister, Ehsia, is devastated. She said Natasha was a precious person, and Ehsia will never be the same; she sees life differently now.
She advises only buying tested e-bikes. The fire service reports more e-bike fires, which involve lithium-ion batteries. They have increased by 50%.
Richard Stanton, a fire chief, wants action taken now. He said Natasha and Karlo’s deaths are tragic, and their families are brave. They hope others learn from this.
Lithium-ion battery fires spread quickly and are a serious risk. Homes and lives can be ruined fast, so people must take precautions. Experts say to charge bikes when awake and unplug them when fully charged. Use the charger that came with the bike and be extra careful with kits.