An overheating cellphone charging on a bed is thought to have caused a fire which gutted a two-story family home in Christchurch.

On Tuesday afternoon emergency services were called to the large blaze on Cordyline Place in the eastern suburb of Waimairi Beach.

No one was home at the time of the fire.

Family friend Lydia O’Loughlin said her husband immediately went to the scene of the blaze to offer support to the family after seeing the story on Chris Lynch’s Facebook page.

She said the homeowners are an absolutely lovely community minded couple.

“They always give so much of their time to charities and voluntary organisations such as the North Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, New Brighton Rugby Club and North Beach Community Preschool.”

“It’s so sad that such a simply action like charging your cellphone on a bed could cause so much devastation.”

The couple have three girls aged 5yrs, 7yrs and 13yrs who attend the local schools.

The family are staying with relatives for the foreseeable future and feel incredibly grateful for the love and support shown by family and friends.

O’Loughlin said the family is very thankful to the neighbours who reacted quickly in calling the fire brigade.

A bank account has been set up by the Waimairi Beach Residents Association.

Residents wishing to make a donation are asked to email [email protected] for bank account details.

O’Loughlin said all money received will be gifted to the family to use as they need.

“We are aware that they may need emergency funds to replace items or may wish to put it towards something in the future and we would like that to be their choice.”

Lithium ion batteries supply power to many devices, including smart phones, laptops, e-bikes, scooters, e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, toys, and even cars. Like any product, a small number of these batteries can be defective – they can overheat, catch fire or explode. Charging cellphones on beds or soft surfaces can be dangerous, because the heat generated cannot dissipate and the charger or phone can become become hotter and hotter.

New Zealand Fire And Emergency guidelines for charging devices

• Do not charge a device under a pillow, on the bed or on a couch – they can overheat and cause a fire

• Don’t use or charge a battery that shows signs of swelling, overheating or damage

• Only use the battery that is designed for the device

• Only use the charging equipment that came with the device, and don’t use it if it’s damaged

• Do not leave batteries or devices in direct sunlight or in hot vehicles

• Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire