Charge safe - E-bike and e-scooter fires are one of our fastest growing fire risks
Charge e-bikes and e-scooters safely to avoid putting you, your home and neighbours’ homes at risk
)
E-bikes and e-scooters are becoming increasingly popular. However, the lithium-ion batteries that power them are a serious fire risk if they’re damaged, faulty or charged incorrectly.
UK firefighters were called to one lithium-ion battery every five hours, tackling 1,760 battery-linked fires in 2025, or 4.8 fires a day. This is up 147% in three years.
Research has shown that nearly half of all lithium-ion fires took place in people’s homes, mainly starting while batteries are charging. All lithium batteries should be charged where permitted, and with caution. They should not be left on constant charge or left unattended when charging. Batteries can ‘explode’ and lead to a rapidly developing fire. The incorrect disposal of lithium-ion batteries in general household and recycling waste can also lead to waste fires.
James Finch, Hyde’s Head of Fire Safety and Delivery said:
“Lithium batteries can fail catastrophically and lithium fires are fast and ferocious. The batteries are prone to overheating if incorrectly charged and they can ‘explode’, leading to a rapidly developing fire.
“It’s vital that when charging e-bikes and e-scooters, you do so safely to avoid the risk of a fire starting. Simple advice like using the correct charger and always unplugging your charger when it’s finished charging, could literally save lives.
“Another issue are poorly manufactured, modified or converted e-bikes, which continue to account for a disproportionate number of incidents. Always make sure you purchase your e-bike or scooter from a reputable seller.
“Also, remember that storing or charging e-bikes and e-scooters on escape routes or in communal areas is not permitted. If there’s a fire, it can affect people’s ability to escape.”
Please follow our advice for safe charging and storage for e-bikes and e-scooters.
Watch this guidance from the London Fire Brigade, including footage of lithium battery explosions.
A reminder that e-bike and e-scooters are not permitted in our large panel system buildings. These are: Charles Dickens House (Tower Hamlets) and Edrich House, Beckett House, Pinter House and Arden House in Stockwell.
*Fire brigade figures obtained by the Press Association.