Safety advice for e-bike and e-scooter storage

Be aware – stay safe

Fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters are a growing risk for South Yorkshire, as 15 fires involving lithium ion batteries were recorded in 2023, almost double the number that occurred in 2022.

As e-bikes and e-scooters become more popular, it is likely that the number of fires caused by the lithium ion batteries will increase.

Following another fire in Sheffield at the end of April, we want to take this opportunity to share the following advice from South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue:

• Never block your escape route with anything, including e-bikes and e-scooters. Store them somewhere away from a main through route. Our advice is to store these items in a safe external location if possible, such as a garage or a shed.
• Always use the correct charger, otherwise the risk of fire increases, and buy an official one from a reputable seller.
• Do not attempt to modify or tamper with your battery. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Converting pedal bikes into e-bikes using DIY kits bought online can be very dangerous. They can pose a higher risk of fire. Get a professional or competent person to carry out the conversion and make sure to buy a battery from a reputable seller and that it is not second-hand.
• Check your battery and charger meets UK safety standards.  We have particular concern where batteries have been purchased from online marketplaces and when they’ve been sourced on the internet, which may not meet the correct safety standards.  Consumers buying any product can check that the item displays a UKCA or CE mark that ensures that the products meet UK and EU safety, health or environmental requirements. If buying online, buy from a UK supplier.
• Watch out for signs that the battery or charger are not working as they should, e.g. if the battery is hot to the touch or has changed shape.

This advice and further details about the recent incident can be found at the following link - Check your battery plea by fire service after battery fire destroys Sheffield house - South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue (syfire.gov.uk)