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E-Bikes And E-Scooters

Buy Safe, Be Safe: Avoid E-Bike and E-Scooter Fires

The Environmental Health Department is warning people who plan to buy e-bikes or e-scooters this Christmas. Fires linked to lithium batteries have increased four times in the UK over the last three years. Since 2020, fires involving lithium-ion batteries have injured 190 people in the UK, and 10 of these incidents have been fatal. The London Fire Brigade reports that e-bike and e-scooter fires are happening every two days. It is important that consumers understand the risks linked to products that use lithium-ion batteries, so they can choose safe items and use them correctly.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards has launched a new safety campaign to highlight the dangers of buying faulty and unsafe e-bikes, e-scooters and components such as batteries - If you own or are thinking about buying an e-bike visit gov.uk/buy-safe for safety guidance.
#BuySafe

Buyers should follow these 3 steps when buying, looking after or making changes to an e-bike or e-scooter: 

Step 1: Buying an e-bike or e-scooter

  • Do your research: Buy your e-bike or e-scooter from trusted sellers and look at reviews first. Products sold to UK consumers must meet UK safety laws: check whether the seller provides information about how they comply.
  • Compliance marks: Look for the UKCA or CE mark on e-bikes and e-scooters. These show that the product meets UK safety standards.

Step 2: Looking after your e-bike or e-scooter

  • Follow the instructions and guidelines: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for storage, charging, and maintenance. If instructions are missing, check the manufacturer’s website for guidance. Always follow the safety and usage instructions provided.
  • Charge safely: Charge the battery in a safe location and keep fire escape routes or exits clear. Do not cover the charger or battery. Charge only when you are awake and present. Unplug once the battery is fully charged.
  • Check compatibility: Make sure the charger is suitable for your battery. Using the wrong charger can cause serious fire risks.

Step 3: Making changes to your e-bike or e-scooter

  • Converting a bike to an e-bike: If you want to convert a pedal bike into an e-bike, use a trained professional.
  • Use manufacturer recommended replacement parts: Only use manufacturer recommended e-bike and e-scooter replacement parts, chargers and batteries.
  • Repairs: Always get a qualified professional to carry out repairs.
  • Don’t tamper with the battery: Never try to modify or tamper with the battery.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service provides further information to help prevent fires from E-bikes and e-scooters in the home: Home Fire Safety - Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service

If you require further information or have any concerns about an e-bike or e-scooter purchased, please contact the Environmental Health Department at the Council on 0330 137 4024 or email ehealth@nmandd.org