Firefighters are issuing another reminder about e-bike and e-scooter safety following a flat fire on Warwick Road in Sutton.
A first-floor flat was destroyed and part of the loft of a semi-detached house converted into flats was damaged by fire. Three people were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
One of the Brigade's 32-metre turntable ladders was used at the scene as a water tower to tackle flames from height.
The cause of the fire is believed to be due to the failure of a lithium battery used for an e-scooter.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Residents became aware of the fire after hearing a loud bang on the first floor. The fire blocked their main escape route, preventing them from using the stairs to exit the flat. As a result, they were forced to evacuate the building through a window.
"This incident highlights why you should always ensure your escape route is clear and why we recommend to never store your e-bike or e-scooter on your means of escape, such as a hallway or by your front door. We’ve seen the devastating consequences of what can happen when an exit is blocked by an e-scooter fire. Instead, keep it in a room where you can shut a door, contain the fire and call 999.
"This incident also highlights the importance of working smoke alarms and heat detection. Smoke alarms give the earliest possible warning when a fire starts and we would urge everyone to make sure they have one fitted in every room where a fire can start except kitchens or bathrooms where heat alarms are more appropriate.
“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’s Control Officers took the first of 17 calls to the fire at 1023. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Mitcham, Sutton, Croydon and Clapham fire stations are at the scene. The fire was under control by 1227.