STAY SAFE WHEN CHARGING E-BIKES AND SCOOTERS – LEARN HOW
E-BIKES, e-scooters and mobility scooters help give us independence and freedom.
But they can also cause a fire risk if not charged properly.
Here’s some things to think about when charging up e-bikes, e-scooters and mobility scooters – helping you and your neighbours stay safe at home.
Charging:
- Don’t overload socket outlets or use extension leads.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging and always unplug your charger when not in use. Don’t overcharge – use a timer to help prevent this.
- Don’t leave batteries to charge un-attended, ie while you are asleep or away from the home.
- Use the manufacturer-approved charger for the product. If you spot any signs of wear and tear or damage don’t use it – buy an official replacement charger for your product from a reputable seller.
- Batteries should always be charged on hard flat surfaces.
- Don’t cover chargers or battery packs when charging as this could lead to overheating.
- Don’t charge batteries or store your e-bike or e-scooter near combustible or flammable materials such as paper, clothing or anything containing flammable liquids/gases or aerosols.
- Ensure you have working smoke alarms fitted in areas where e-bikes or e-scooters are being charged.
Storage:
- Avoid storing or charging e-bikes and e-scooters on escape routes or in communal areas. If there’s a fire, it can affect people’s ability to escape.
- Try to store e-bikes and e-scooters and their batteries in a cool place. Avoid storing them in hot or cold areas.
- Avoid storing them in enclosed spaces like cupboards or under stairs that can trap heat and increase risk of a fire.
- Never store e-bikes on balconies to avoid exposure to heat, rain, moisture and other things that can potentially damage batteries or increase risk of fire.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the storage and maintenance of lithium-ion batteries and what to do if they’re not going to be used for extended periods of time.
In the event of an e-bike, e-scooter or lithium-ion battery fire – don’t attempt to extinguish the fire. Get out, stay out, and call 999.