A fire was reported around 1:50 a.m. on the 25th, originating from a five-story building. According to the police, approximately 20 square meters of one room on the second floor were burned. A woman living in the room and five other men and women from other rooms were transported to the hospital after inhaling smoke, but all injuries are reported to be minor.

The woman living in the room believed to be the source of the fire explained, “I was sleeping with my mobile battery connected and charging. I woke up to a sound and saw flames.” The police station is investigating the cause, considering the possibility that the fire started from the mobile battery.

The site is an area about 200 meters east of Minami Station on the Marunouchi Line, lined with residences and shops.

Within the jurisdiction, fires caused by mobile batteries have reached 47 cases from January to June this year, with 77 cases last year. It is recommended to stop using batteries that show abnormalities, such as draining quickly or becoming hot during charging, and to consult with the seller. It is also advised to avoid purchasing products without clear manufacturer or seller information or unclear specifications, and to check for the PSE mark, which indicates compliance with national safety standards.

Minami Station

Minami Station is a railway station located in the city of Saitama, Japan, serving the Saitama Shintoshin area. It opened in 2000 as part of the development of the new Saitama prefectural capital and urban center. The station is a key hub, providing direct access to major sports venues like the Saitama Super Arena and connecting the area to central Tokyo via the Saikyo and Kawagoe Lines.

Marunouchi Line

The Marunouchi Line is the first subway line built by the Tokyo Metro, opening in 1954. It runs in a loop through central Tokyo, connecting major hubs like Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, and Ikebukuro. Its distinctive red-colored trains are an iconic part of the city’s transportation network.