Overview

• A vape device left charging on a bed began emitting smoke before exploding and igniting a fire that spread through three neighbouring Grey Street houses.
• Three people were hospitalised with injuries not believed to be life-threatening and fire crews declared three of the four homes uninhabitable due to extensive roof and smoke damage.
• Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue confirmed an investigation is under way to determine why the device failed and triggered such a violent blast.
• Local residents have donated blankets, accommodation and funds through the GoFundMe campaign to support families forced from their homes.
• Fire officials warned against using improper or third-party chargers and advised placing electronic devices in safe locations and unplugging them when unattended.