Overview

• Fire crews responded at about 3:53 p.m. Tuesday to 56 Haviland Street and, after calling a second alarm and mutual aid, brought heavy flames under control in roughly 15 minutes.
• Investigators determined the blaze was accidental and began when a lithium‑ion battery from an electric scooter exploded in the kitchen.
• The battery had been failing to charge, and an aftermarket charger purchased online was in use at the time of the explosion.
• All occupants escaped without injury, but extensive fire and smoke damage displaced four people and two dogs, officials said.
• Fire officials urged use of manufacturer‑recommended, UL‑listed chargers and safe battery recycling at hazardous‑waste or retail drop‑off sites, noting Massachusetts has reported 75 lithium‑ion battery fires this year.