A HOVERBOARD battery pack exploded in a Southampton home last night days after it had been thrown in the bin.

Firefighters from Redbridge were sent to the Shirley house at about 3.15am after one of the occupants heard a bang in the night.

Watch manager Jamie Townsend said that one member of the household in Victory Road was awake at the time when they heard the explosion and saw the bin on fire.

Taking the bin outside they then called the emergency services.

After putting out the fire firefighters saw that the battery pack had over heated.

Hoverboards, also known as Segways, are controversial toys which were withdrawn by retail giants towards the end of last year.

Mr Townsend said this incident highlighted the safety issues surrounding the disposal of battery packs and faulty battery packs.

“If people aren’t aware they need to be aware. Make sure you dispose of them safely,” he said suggesting that people take them to their local recycling centre rather than throwing them in the bin.

No one was hurt.