Container Loaded With Lithium-Ion Batteries Catches Fire At Port Of Montreal

A container loaded with 15,000 kilograms of lithium-ion batteries caught fire at the Port of Montreal on the evening of September 23, 2024.

The fire led to a temporary lockdown in the nearby Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve borough.

Residents were advised to stay indoors due to the heavy smoke, but the situation was under control by late evening, and the lockdown was lifted around 10:30 p.m.

About 60 people were evacuated as a precautionary measure.

One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was transported to the hospital. No other injuries were reported.

The fire started at around 4:40 p.m. in a container at one of the port’s terminals.

While authorities said that there was no chance of the fire spreading, they advised residents to keep their windows closed as a health precaution.

Containers — Image Credits: Mercier – Hochelaga-Maisonneuve district/Facebook

The Montreal Fire Department confirmed that smoke levels had decreased by morning on September 24th, and tests showed no signs of toxicity in the air.

Officials then informed the public that there was no risk to health and safety.

The City of Montreal released updates on social media, confirming that the fire was under control and that normal port operations had resumed.

A specialized team is expected to handle the removal of lithium batteries, and there has been no reported damage to the port’s infrastructure.

Notre Dame Street was temporarily closed in both directions while firefighters and police worked to lock down the area.

The exact cause of the fire is still being investigated.

Reference: Montreal City News

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