E-bikes and scooters

The majority of fires related to e-bikes and e-scooters have happened in homes. These fires often happen when charging batteries.

There are a number of ways you can reduce the risk of fire in the home.

Charging your e-bike or e-scooter

Don’t charge e-bikes and e-scooters in bedrooms or where escape routes can be blocked – for example, hallways
Don’t leave your battery charging unattended, when you are out or while you are asleep
Don’t cover chargers or battery packs when charging
Don’t overload sockets or use inappropriate extension leads
Don’t charge or store batteries in direct sunlight or in hot locations (above 45⁰C)
Don’t charge batteries close to combustible materials or hazardous substances.
Always unplug your charger when you have finished charging
If your battery can be removed from your e-bike or e-scooter and charged separately, it should be charged on a hard flat surface where heat can disperse and in area with good ventilation.

You must stop using or charging your battery immediately if you notice any of the following:

Overheating: If your device’s battery feels extremely hot to the touch
Deformation: If your battery looks swollen. Similar signs include any type of lump or leaking from the device
Noise: If your battery is making hissing or cracking sounds
Smell: If you notice a strong or unusual smell coming from the battery
Performance: If your battery does not fully charge or is taking longer to charge than normal
Smoke: If your battery or device is smoking

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and using your product
Always use the manufacturer-approved battery and charger
If you need a replacement battery or charger for your e-bike or e-scooter go directly back to the manufacturer or retailer you bought it from to ensure its safe
Regularly inspect your product and check for damage or warning signs that your battery might be failing and becoming a fire risk
Don’t attempt to modify or tamper with your battery

Only buy e-bikes, e-scooters, chargers and batteries from reputable retailers and manufacturers
Check the product is marked with a CE or UKCA mark to ensure they comply with UK product safety standards
Check product reviews before buying
Register your product with the manufacturer to validate any warranties and make it easier for manufacturers to contact you in the event of a safety issue e.g. product recall
Check if products have been recalled by visiting the government Product Recalls and Alerts website

Conversion kits change standard bicycles into e-bikes
It is recommended that a professional carries out an e-bike conversion. They will be responsible for ensuring that the e-bike is safe and fitted with the correct motor, battery and charger
Installing a conversion kit yourself could lead to safety issues with your e-bike and increase the risk of fire
Furthermore, it could invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty and make you responsible for any consequent damage or accident. If you modify an e-bike to increase its power or speed then it may no longer be legal to use on public roads