Firefighters have issued a reminder about using e-bikes safely following a fire at a block of flats on Bilton Road in Perivale.
A converted e-bike and part of a ground floor entrance hall was damaged by fire. One man, three women and a child were led to safety from a first floor flat by firefighters. They were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service as a precaution to be treated for smoke inhalation.
The fire is believed to have been caused by the failure of a lithium-ion battery for a converted e-bike.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "The bike was being stored in a communal hallway meaning the fire would have impeded people's escape. If you can, store an e-bike or e-scooter outdoors in an external location such as a garage or shed.
"However, we understand that this is not possible for everyone. If you keep an e-bike or e-scooter indoors. Make sure it is never being stored or charged on an escape route, such as a hallway, by the front door or on or under a staircase. Instead, have it in a room away from the door, where in the event of a fire, you can shut the door and get everyone to safety."
E-bikes and e-scooters are one of London's fastest-growing fire risks. Since the beginning of 2023, there has been a fire involving an e-bike or e-scooter, on average, once every two days.
The Brigade spokesperson continued: "E-bikes and e-scooters are a green and sustainable way to travel around our city. However, the stark reality is that some of these vehicles are proving to be incredibly dangerous and are at greater risk of malfunctioning, particularly if they’ve been modified, fitted or converted with second-hand products or if the batteries are used with the incorrect chargers.
"In this case, the bike had been converted from a normal pedal cycle by having lithium-ion batteries fitted. It is vital that any conversion is carried out by a professional or competent person.
"We encourage anyone who owns an e-bike or e-scooter, or is thinking about purchasing one, to take a look at all of our #ChargeSafe advice on our website to help keep themselves and those around them safer from these types of fires."
The Brigade was called at 2121 and Control Officers mobilised three fire engines from Wembley and Park Royal fire stations attended the scene. The fire was extinguished by 2237.
Safety tips for e-bike and e-scooter users to follow