Most fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters happen while the battery is charging.
Charging places stress on the battery. If the charger is incompatible or the battery is damaged, it can overheat and fail.
Following simple steps when charging can significantly reduce the risk of a fire.
What charger should you use?
- Use the charger supplied with the battery or one recommended by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can overload the battery and increase the risk of overheating and fire.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging.
- Make sure you unplug your charger once it’s finished charging.
- Replacement chargers should only be bought from reputable sellers.
- Make sure your battery and charger meet UK safety standards.
Where to charge your batteries
- Batteries should always be charged on hard, flat surfaces where heat can dissipate.
- Store and charge them somewhere away from a main through-route or exit.
- Never block your escape route with e-bikes or e-scooters.
- Make sure you and your family have an escape plan in place in the event of a fire.
- Fit a smoke alarm in the area where you charge your batteries.
When to charge your batteries
- After use, allow batteries to cool before charging.
- Never leave a battery charging unattended or while you’re asleep.
How can you reduce the risk of overheating?
Batteries can become warm during use or charging. To reduce the risk of overheating:
- Avoid charging batteries that have been damaged
- Protect batteries from extreme heat or cold
- If a battery has been dropped or damaged, it should not be used.