Lecture evacuated after battery pack catches fire

By Nyx Osborne Sandford, News Subeditor

A lecture theatre in the Priory Road Complex was evacuated on Thursday, September 24, after a student’s battery pack caught fire during a first-year Business lecture.

The lecture theatre was evacuated near the beginning of the lecture after the fire started - although teaching resumed after it was put out. 

The fire was caught on camera, showing staff directing students to evacuate while the battery pack burns underneath a desk.

Students returned to the lecture theatre to find a scorched seat and carpet, but no serious damage occurred, and the lecture could resume.

Fire engines called to University of Bristol’s Goldney Hall

A fire broke out on the grounds of the accommodation in the early hours of February 4 in a building used for private events.

EpigramStella Phipps

A University of Bristol spokesperson said:

‘During a lecture last week at Priory Road, a lithium battery in a student's bag unexpectedly ignited briefly. This caused some slight scorching to the seat and carpet, and the lecture theatre was evacuated as a precaution. The bag and battery were taken into safe storage and the lecture resumed. We'd like to thank the student and Security Services for their prompt action in this matter.’

Featured Image: Epigram / Lianne Ponferrada