Firefighters are issuing another reminder about using e-bikes and e-scooters safely after a flat fire on St Peter's Way in Hackney.
Half of the ground floor flat was destroyed by fire. One man suffering from smoke inhalation was treated on scene by London Ambulance Service.
The fire is believed to have been caused by the failure of lithium batteries charging in an e-scooter.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "This fire is yet another example of why we are so concerned about e-bikes and e-scooters and why we’re running our #ChargeSafe campaign to raise awareness of the fire risks associated with these vehicles.
“The Brigade's 999 Control officers received 17 calls alerting them to the blaze.
"Our advice is to never block an escape route with anything, including e-bikes and e-scooters. Store them somewhere well away from a main through route. Our advice is to store these items in a safe location, if possible, such as a garage or a shed. If this is not possible, make sure the device is in a room where you can shut a door and contain a fire."
In 2026 (from January to August), the Brigade has recorded 129 fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters.
The lithium batteries that power these vehicles store a huge amount of energy in a very small space. If that energy is released in an uncontrolled way, then a fire or explosion may result.
The Brigade is predominantly seeing fires where these batteries have been purchased from online which may not meet the correct safety standards.
Lithium batteries are susceptible to failure if incorrect chargers are used and there is a significant risk posed by e-bikes and e-scooters which have been converted.
The Brigade's 999 Control officers received the first call alerting them to the fire at 2057, the blaze was extinguished by 2236. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Shoreditch, Islington and Stoke Newington fire stations attended the scene.
Safety tips for e-bike and e-scooter users to follow
- Never block your escape route with anything, including e-bikes and e-scooters. Store them somewhere away from a main through route. Our advice is to store these items in a safe external location if possible, such as a garage or a shed.
- Always use the correct charger and buy an official one from a reputable seller.
- Do not attempt to modify or tamper with your battery. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Converting pedal bikes into e-bikes using DIY kits bought online can be very dangerous. They pose a higher risk of fire. Get a professional to carry out the conversion and make sure to buy a battery from a reputable seller and that it is not second-hand.
- Check your battery and charger meets UK safety standards. We have particular concern where batteries have been purchased from online marketplaces and when they've been sourced on the internet, which may not meet the correct safety standards.
- Watch out for signs that the battery or charger aren’t working as they should – e.g. if the battery is hot to the touch or has changed shape.
- Let the battery cool before charging. Batteries can get warm during their use and it is advisable to allow them to cool down before attempting to re-charge as they could be more susceptible to failure if overheated. If you are charging batteries indoors, please follow our advice on safe charging.
- Unplug your charger once it’s finished charging. Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when charging and we would advise not to leave it unattended or while people are asleep.
- Fit alarms where you charge. Ensure you have smoke alarms fitted in areas where e-bikes or e-scooters are being charged and make sure they are tested regularly. You can quickly and easily check your home by visiting our free online home fire safety checker tool