Fires caused by electric bikes (e‑bikes) and electric scooters (e‑scooters) are becoming more common. Some of these fires have led to people being hurt, and sadly, some have caused deaths.
Lithium‑ion batteries are used in lots of everyday items, like mobile phones, e‑cigarettes, laptops, hoverboards, electric cars, mobility scooters, e‑bikes and e‑scooters. These batteries are useful, but if they fail, they can cause very dangerous fires.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service has seen more and more fires caused by these batteries, especially in e‑bikes and e‑scooters
In 2022/23:
They went to an e‑bike or e‑scooter fire about every two weeks.
There were five injuries.
There were two deaths linked to fires caused by these batteries.
Magenta Living is working with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service to help people understand the dangers and how to stay safe.
Keeping you safe
To reduce the risk of a fire, it’s important to charge mobility scooters, e‑bikes and e‑scooters safely. Follow these simple rules:
Only buy these products from companies you know and trust.
Only use the charger that came with your product. Make sure it has a built‑in system that stops the battery from overcharging or overheating.
Never charge mobility scooters, e-bikes and e-scooters overnight, instead do this during the day and outside of the home.
Stop using if you see any signs that your battery is failing such as if it is swelling, making unusual sounds, has a strong smell, is failing to charge.
Speak to your local bike shop for expert advice and guidance, instead of converting a bike into an e-bike yourself.
If your battery, bike or scooter is smoking, this means a fire has already started. Get out, stay out, call 999
Check if your battery products are safe
You can check if any of your electrical products have been recalled for safety reasons by visiting Electrical Safety First.