Preventing e-bike fires
Follow these key messages to minimise the risk of fire:
Charging
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on charging and charging times.
Never overcharge your battery.
Unplug your charger when it’s finished charging and don’t over charge it.
Never charge batteries while you are asleep or away from the home. Only charge them while you are awake and alert, so if a fire should occur you can respond quickly.
Ensure you have working smoke alarms. If you charge or store your e-bike in a garage or kitchen ensure you install detection. We recommend heat alarms rather than smoke detectors for these areas.
Always use the manufacturer-approved charger for the product. If you spot any signs of wear and tear or damage, buy an official replacement charger from a reputable seller.
Do not cover chargers or battery packs when charging. This could lead to overheating or even a fire.
Do not charge batteries or store your e-bike near combustible or flammable materials.
Do not overload socket outlets or use inappropriate extension leads.
Use un-coiled extensions and ensure the lead is suitably rated for what you are plugging in to it.
Storage
Avoid storing or charging e-bikes on escape routes or in communal areas. If there’s a fire, it can affect people’s ability to escape
Store e-bikes and their batteries in a cool place. Avoid storing them in excessively hot or cold areas.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions for the storage and maintenance of lithium-ion batteries if they are not going to be used for extended periods of time.
Responsible persons should consider the risks posed by e-bikes where they are charged or left in common areas such as means of escape, bike stores and mobility scooter charging rooms. They may wish to offer advice to residents on the safe use, storage and charging of these products.
Buying
Buy e-bike chargers and batteries from reputable retailers.
Many fires involve counterfeit electrical goods. Always check the items meet British or European standards. Items which don’t meet these standards pose a huge fire risk.
If buying an e-bike conversion kit, purchase from a reputable seller and check that it complies with British or European standards. Take particular care if buying from online auction or fulfilment platforms.
Also be aware that if buying separate components, you should check that they are compatible.
Register your product with the manufacturer. It makes it easier for manufacturers to contact you with safety information or when a product is recalled.
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.
Damage and Disposal
Batteries can be damaged by dropping them or crashing e-bikes. 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 manufacturer may offer a recycling service. Alternatively check with your local authority for suitable battery recycling arrangements in your area