Laptop catches fire at Negros Oriental airport

MANILA, Philippines — Air travelers have been advised to inspect their electronic gadgets before plugging them into power outlets in airports to avoid possible fire incidents.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) issued the reminder following an incident involving a laptop computer that emitted smoke while being plugged into a power outlet at the departure area of the Dumaguete Airport in Negros Oriental on Sunday night.

The CAAP said an airport security officer used a fire extinguisher to put out the flames.

The smell of the smoke prompted airport authorities to move passengers waiting for their flights to the ramp area. They were allowed to return to the departure area a few minutes later.

The incident did not affect any flight.

The CAAP said passengers should ensure that their electronic gadgets are in good condition before connecting these to power outlets in any airport.