Man Escapes Unharmed After Phone Battery Explodes at Umm Al Hassam Office

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: editor@newsofbahrain.com

In a dramatic incident at an office in Umm Al Hassam, a man narrowly escaped injury when his phone's battery exploded while he was waiting in the reception area. The incident took place as 53-year-old Hafees Hussain was watching videos on his phone, a Samsung Galaxy Note 4, a model released in 2014.

"I was watching videos on my phone when it suddenly exploded. I didn't even feel any heat from the phone," Hussain told the Daily Tribune. The unexpected explosion left him shocked and shaken.

Fortunately, the quick actions of those nearby prevented further harm. They swiftly extinguished the fire that erupted after the explosion, averting any additional damage or injury. "It was very close to my face," Hussain explained, recounting the harrowing experience with visible distress.

Initial investigations suggest that the phone had been in use for an extended period, but Hussain noted there were no prior signs of any issues with the device before the explosion.

Excessive heat

To find out the technical reason DT reached a few experts and they explained that excessive heat being the most common reason for such explosions. When a battery heats up quickly during charging or heavy usage, it can cause a chemical reaction known as thermal runaway. This process generates more heat, which can result in the phone catching fire.

Physical damage to the phone, such as drops or bends, can also compromise the integrity of the battery. Additionally, prolonged exposure to sunlight, malware in the CPU, or improper charging practices can damage the battery, leading to potential hazards. 

While some factors are under the user's control, others, such as the natural degradation of internal components over time, are not. Aging batteries can swell and overheat, increasing the risk of explosion.

What are the Warning Signs?

Although a battery explosion can happen without warning, there are some signs to watch for. These include hissing or popping sounds, the smell of burning plastic or chemicals, and excessive heat from the device, especially while charging. If a battery swells, causing changes in the device's shape, such as a protruding screen or a distended chassis, it's a clear indication of potential danger.

Most modern smartphones no longer have removable batteries, so if you suspect an issue, it's crucial to turn off the device and seek professional service immediately.

This incident serves as a timely reminder of the risks associated with older electronic devices, particularly those with aging batteries. Hussain's fortunate escape underscores the importance of staying vigilant about the condition of personal gadgets, especially as they age.