How to safely charge and store your e-bike or e-scooter
Charging e-scooters and bikes can be dangerous, say first responders.
Recently, a house fire in Hove, England, was likely caused by an e-bike battery, they have concluded.
Fire services are highlighting the risks which come with charging lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in e-bikes and e-scooters.
How to safely charge and store your e-bike/e-scooter
If you’re buying an e-bike, e-scooter or replacement battery watch how to use them safely.
Follow this advice to charge them safely:
- Store your e-bike or e-scooter outside in a garage or shed if possible
- Keep escape routes and exits clear if you need to charge it indoors
- Let the battery cool before charging and then unplug it when it is finished. Do not overcharge the battery
- Do not charge the vehicle while sleeping or unattended
- Check your battery regularly for signs of damage, especially if you drop it or crash your e-bike/e-scooter. Damaged batteries can overheat or catch fire
- Do not overload electrical sockets
Buy from a reputable seller
This does not just apply to buying an e-bike or e-scooter during Black Friday and Christmas.
If you buy from an online marketplace the product may not meet UK safety standards.
Look for a CE mark on the product and packaging like the one below.
Products which do not meet UK safety standards may be damaged and may be more likely to catch fire.
Register your e-bike or e-scooter
You can validate warranties if you register your product with the manufacturer. This includes batteries.
If safety issues are raised with your e-bike or e-scooter at a later date it will be easier for the manufacturer to contact you.
Work out an escape plan at your home
Knowing what to do and where to go if there is a fire in your home could save your life.
Prepare and practice what you would do if there is a fire at home.
Check the smoke alarms in your home are working by testing them every week. Watch how to check your smoke alarm.
If your e-bike, e-scooter or any other lithium-ion battery catches fire, do not try and extinguish it.
Get out, stay out, call 999 if there is a fire your home.
Advice from your local fire service