SMOKERS are warned not to leave e-cigarettes on charge for long periods of time after one of the devices caused a fire at a Wirral home.

Firefighters were called to a property on Norwich Drive in Upton in the early hours of Thursday morning after an unattended e-cigarette on charge caught fire.

A 32-year-old man was woken by his dog and together they were able to flee their home safely before firefighters arrived.

Wirral Globe:

Fire damage caused by the e-cigarette that had been left on charge overnight

The man was given oxygen by firefighters after suffering slight smoke inhalation and taken to Arrowe Park Hospital by paramedics for further checks.

Fire service investigators traced the cause to an e-cigarette, which had been left on charge in the living room overnight.

Wirral Globe:

Fire damage caused by the e-cigarette that had been left on charge overnight

Incident investigator Jo Stephens said: "E-cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular and it's very important that people know how to charge them safely.

Wirral Globe:

Fire damage caused by the e-cigarette that had been left on charge overnight

"This gentleman was very lucky that this fire did not claim his life; unfortunately he suffered slight smoke inhalation and the property was damaged by fire and smoke, but things could have been a lot worse.

"We would urge people never to leave their e-cigarette on charge while they are asleep or away from the house, and to always read the safety advice enclosed in the packaging.

Wirral Globe:

Fire damage caused by the e-cigarette that had been left on charge overnight

"Our advice for e-cigarettes is the same as for many smaller electrical appliances such as mobile phones and laptops; don't be tempted to buy cheap, unbranded chargers, don't leave them on charge while you are out of the house or asleep and keep them well away from combustible materials."

The fire service has issued top tips:

  • Never leave e-cigarettes on charge unattended for long periods of time.
  • Do not mix components of different e-cigarettes.
  • Only use the charger supplied with your device.
  • Ensure you purchase your e-cigarette and charger from a reputable source.
  • Check the e-cigarette carries CE certification.
  • Test your smoke alarm regularly.
  • Contact Trading Standards over any e-cigarette safety concerns.