E-scooters and e-bikes

There has been a nationwide increase in fires involving e-scooters and e-bikes recently, with many being started due to issues with the lithium-ion batteries. Often these fires are caused by faulty or damaged batteries or when charging using incompatible chargers.

Due to the fire risk of these vehicles, e-scooters or bikes must not be stored in common areas or in fire exit routes. They should ideally be stored in a room that has a fire door and a smoke detector so that if a fire does occur, the fire exit route out of your home will not be affected. If you charge batteries inside your home, make sure that you do this during the day when people are not asleep.
The same advice relates to electric mobility scooters.

Please take a look at the advice below to help you stay safe.

: Always purchase from a reputable seller. Cheaper imported items may not comply to the stricter UK regulations and may pose a greater risk of failure.

Always use the correct charger for the product. If the supplied charger stops working, make sure you replace it with one which is a match to the original and is purchased from a reputable seller.

Batteries can also pose a risk if they have been damaged, so try to ensure they are not getting knocked around while in use or while being carried as spares as this can increase the chance of damage to cells. Dispose of damaged batteries in the correct way.

Never block your escape route with anything, including bikes and scooters. Store them somewhere away from a main exit route and preferably behind a closed fire door.

E-bikes and e-scooters must never be stored in the communal areas of a block of flats.
: Batteries can get warm during their use. Allow them to cool down before attempting to recharge.

Batteries should always be charged on hard flat surfaces, which reduces the risk of them overheating.

Batteries can also pose a risk if they have been damaged, so try to ensure they are not getting knocked around while in use or while being carried.

Batteries should never be exposed to extreme temperatures.
: Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when charging.

Never leave it charging unattended or while you are sleeping.

You should always make sure you unplug your charger once it has finished charging.

Always use the correct charger for your batteries and buy any replacements from a reputable seller.
: Never block your escape route with e-bikes or e-scooters.

Store and charge them somewhere away from a main through route or exit.

Make sure you and your family have an escape plan in place in the event of a fire. Always call 999, never try to fight the fire yourself.