Check e-scooter and e-bike chargers to avoid risk of fire

Many will have seen people whizzing around on pavements and roads on e-bikes and e-scooters in their local area, as they become the latest popular choice for quick travel.

But those who own the electrical devices are now being urged to check if they have the “appropriate” chargers to keep them powered up in order to prevent the risk of a “potentially catastrophic” fire.

This is because if they are not “compatible” with the voltage of the battery, it risks a serious process called “thermal runaway,” reports Sky News.

Electrical Safety First explains: “Thermal runaway is a major challenge in the lithium-ion battery field due to its uncontrollable and irreversible nature, which can lead to venting of toxic fumes, fires and explosions.”

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Product safety engineer at the charity, Giuseppe Capanna said it was “essential” for people to use the correct chargers, specifically the ones that come with the devices from point of purchase.

It comes as the experts in electrical safety are now hoping for a ban on “universal chargers that come with multiple outlets to connect to various batteries.”

Electrical Safety First had already called on these types of batteries to be “regulated”, in a similar way to fireworks and heavy machinery, which need third-party assessment before going on sale to the public.

Sky News adds: “At the moment, lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes and e-scooters can go on sale with only the manufacturer’s declaration that they meet safety standards.

The process of thermal runaway can occur if a battery becomes damaged, leading to explosive and uncontrollable fires.

We’ve been sharing our top tips for e-bike and e-scooter safety. Find our advice on #SaferUse here: https://t.co/RwE2U4poyi pic.twitter.com/VMk6nLNgPX

— Electrical Safety First (@ElecSafetyFirst) August 13, 2023

“Consumers are also being advised to stick to reputable manufacturers and retailers.”

Where is the safest place to charge e-bikes and e-scooters at home?

The urgent warnings come after a rise in fatal incidents related to e-bike and e-scooter batteries, which has also been prompting warnings from UK fire services.

It’s been recommended that people should charge their devices outside in an enclosed space such as a detached garage, shed or a designated charging area for high-rise flats.

Owners should not charge e-bikes or e-scooters in an exit route including a hallway, landing or stairwell.

This is because fires can spread quickly through properties and it can block your escape route.

According to Sky News, the government has said fires linked to e-bikes and e-scooters are being looked at, and a “research project” will be carried out to look into “commonly used batteries.”