E-bikes and e-scooters have become popular, but they can be a fire risk if they’re not handled properly.
Please make sure you read the instructions carefully before you use or charge them. And make sure you know how to dispose of any batteries.
Safely charging your e-bike or e-scooter
Please see below the advice from the London Fire Brigade to ensure you safely charge your electric bike or scooter.
Please don’t:
- Charge e-bikes and e-scooters in bedrooms or where escape routes can be blocked – for example, hallways.
- Leave your battery charging unattended when you are out or while you are asleep.
- Cover chargers or battery packs when charging.
- Overload sockets or use inappropriate extension leads.
- Charge or store batteries in direct sunlight or in hot locations (above 45⁰C).
- Charge batteries close to combustible materials or hazardous substances.
Reduce the risk of overheating:
- 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.
Disposing of e-bike and e-scooter batteries
E-bike and e-scooters use lithium-ion batteries, which can lead to explosive fires if they’re not disposed of correctly. Batteries should not be disposed of in your waste bin. Many supermarkets have battery disposal collections available. You can find more information about e-bike and e-scooters on the London Fire Brigade website.