E-bike and E-scooter Essential Fire Safety Guidance

The soaring popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters has also driven a rising trend for fires caused by the lithium-ion batteries that power them, also used in many other household products – such as toys, mobile phones, power tools and many more.

The benefits of choosing an E-bike or scooter are plentiful – from being a cheaper, more environmentally friendly choice of transport to getting the health benefits from cycling – there’s much to love about getting around on an e-bike or scooter, however, it’s also imperative that you learn how to store and charge them safely to keep you, your property and your family safe from the risk of fire.

It is important when charging e-bikes and e-scooters, you do so safely to avoid a risk of a fire starting and putting your families and homes at risk. London Fire Brigade reported fifty nine fires related to e-bikes and e-scooters in 2021, so it’s imperative that safety is a priority.

Here’s our guide to staying safe:

1. Charging

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging and always unplug your charger when it’s finished charging.

Ensure you have working smoke alarms.

Don’t leave batteries charging while you are asleep or away from home.

Always use the manufacturer-approved charger for the product.

Do not cover chargers or battery packs when charging as this could lead to overheating or even a fire.

Do not charge batteries or store your e-bike or e-scooter near combustible or flammable materials.

Do not overcharge your battery – check the manufacturer’s instructions for charge times.

Do not overload socket outlets or use inappropriate extension leads.

2. Storage

Avoid storing or charging e-bikes and e-scooters on escape routes or in communal areas of a multi-occupied building.

Responsible Persons should consider the risks posed by e-bikes and e-scooters where they are charged or left in common areas.

Store e-bikes and e-scooters and their batteries in a cool place. Avoid storing them in excessively hot or cold areas.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the storage and maintenance of lithium-ion batteries if they are not used for extended periods.

3. Protection

Ensure you have the correct apparatus to safeguard your property and stop a potentially disastrous fire in its tracks before causing significant damage.

Conventional fire extinguishers cannot effectively extinguish a lithium-ion battery fire. Only a specialist extinguisher such as the Firechief Lith-Ex Extinguisher is suitable on this type of fire.

Lithium Battery Fire Extinguishers are specialist high performance extinguishers designed to stop lithium-ion battery fires fast. They are suited to confined spaces where fires need to be suppressed in their infancy before developing into a fully established fire.

For just over £30 Marlowe Fire & Security can provide you with a state-of-the-art Lith-Ex Extinguisher. Click here for more information.

4. Buying

Buy e-bikes, e-scooters, chargers and batteries from reputable retailers.

Items which don’t meet British or European standards pose a huge fire risk. Don’t put your life at risk and potentially destroy your home by buying a fake charger to save a few pounds.

If buying an e-bike conversion kit, purchase from a reputable seller and check that it complies with British or European standards. Also be aware that if buying separate components, you should check that they are compatible.

Register your product with the manufacturer to validate any warranties. Registering makes it easier for manufacturers to contact you in the event of safety or recall information.

Check any products you have bought are not subject to a product recall. You can do this but checking Electrical Safety First’s website or the government website.

5. Damage and disposal

Batteries can be damaged by dropping them or crashing e-bikes or e-scooters. Where the battery is damaged, it can overheat and catch fire without warning. Check your battery regularly for any signs of damage and if you suspect it is damaged it should be replaced and should not be used or charged.

If you need to dispose of a damaged or end of life battery, don’t dispose of it in your household waste or normal recycling. These batteries, when punctured or crushed, can cause fires in bin lorries, recycling and waste centres. Your e-bike or e-scooter manufacturer may offer a recycling service. Alternatively, check with your local authority for suitable battery recycling arrangements in your area.


For further information about lithium-ion battery fires, click here.

Read more about rules around use here.