Firefighters are issuing another reminder about using e-bikes and e-scooters safely following a fire at a flat on Reculver Road in Lewisham.
Part of the hallway of a third-floor flat was damaged by fire. One woman jumped from the flat’s balcony to escape the fire. She was assisted by firefighters before being taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service to be treated for injuries sustained as a result of her fall. A man was led to safety from the flat by firefighters and treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.
The fire is believed to have been caused by the catastrophic failure of an e-bike battery that was being charged in the flat’s hallway. The battery is thought to have been on charge for around 12 hours.
London Fire Brigade Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Prevention & Protection, Richard Field, said: “This incident highlights why you should always ensure your escape route is clear and why we recommend to never charge your e-bike or e-scooter on your means of escape, such as a hallway or by your front door.
“Although working smoke alarms helped alert the occupants quickly to this fire, a woman found herself trapped inside a bedroom with smoke travelling in. She decided to go out onto the balcony and jump to the ground, three storeys high. She has unfortunately sustained a quite serious injury due to the fall and we wish her well in her recovery.
“In London, we have been attending a fire, on average every other day involving an e-bike or e-scooter. Last year, we saw a record number of fires [206] and this is why we urge those who own of these vehicles or are thinking about purchasing one to take a look at our #ChargeSafe advice to help keep themselves and those around them safe.”
To reduce the risk of fires starting in the first place, it is vital that people are using batteries that have been purchased from a reputable seller. Items purchased online or second-hand, which don’t meet UK safety standards, are particularly prone to going up in flames.
Mismatching the charger also increases the risk of fire. It's also important not to overcharge and to unplug the charger once it's completed charging. Never charge an e-bike or e-scooter unattended or whilst you're sleeping.
Converting a bike from a pushbike into an e-bike should always be carried out by a professional or competent person.
The Brigade was called at 1114 and Control Officers mobilised three fire engines from Deptford, Old Kent Road and Peckham fire stations to the scene, along with a fire rescue unit from Islington Fire Station. The fire was extinguished by 1145.