Australian man severely burned in robot vacuum explosion
A 25-year-old Australian man suffered burns to 75% of his body after a robot vacuum cleaner caught fire and exploded in his home.
Extensive Burns
Lachie Perrem, 25, from Australia, sustained severe body burns covering 75% of his body after a robot vacuum cleaner ignited and exploded in his home on July 2. He was rushed to the hospital and has undergone multiple surgeries since. His mother, Fiona Perrem, revealed that her son was unaware of a battery leak in the vacuum. While he was preparing food, a fire started and caused an explosion, with him at the epicenter.
Damage and Investigation
The explosion blew out windows and blackened walls, with fire spreading from the kitchen to the living room, destroying furniture and leaving debris. The device has been handed over to the Building and Energy department for investigation. The Western Australian Fire and Emergency Services warned that lithium-ion batteries in robot vacuums can be extremely dangerous. When damaged, they can undergo thermal runaway—a process where cells rupture, releasing toxic, flammable gases and causing an intense, self-sustaining fire.
Treatment and Recovery
Lachie has had three surgeries, including wound cleaning and skin grafts on his fingers, left elbow, and body. He also temporarily lost his voice and faces several more surgeries in the coming months. On July 20, his mother posted an update on GoFundMe, noting a positive turn: skin grafts are healing well, physiotherapy is pleased with his progress (especially hand movement), and his feeding tube has been removed. His face and neck are also healing well.
