Fire safety tips for e‑scooters, e‑bikes and hoverboards

In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of personal electronic vehicles (PEVs) including e-scooters, e-bikes and hoverboards.

For many, these personal transporters provide an alternative and accessible model of travel, in particular for those living in big cities.

PEVs are battery-powered and in most cases powered by lithium-ion or li-ion batteries.

As popularity and usage increases, so too does the risk that fires caused by e-bikes and e-scooter pose to life and property, due to damaged or failing batteries.

Rising incidents

In 2023, London Fire Brigade reported that on average, they were called out to an e-bike or e-scooter fire once every 2 days.

This included 143 e-bike fires along with 36 blazes involving e-scooters. The risk of fire is increased when charging unsafe or damaged batteries.

Dangerous batteries

As widely reported in the national press, many shopping centres, rail and transport services have now banned PEV items from their trains, platforms and premises.

Lithium battery fires can spread quickly out of control, and within minutes have started a large fire.

A leading UK charity on electrical safety, Electrical Safety First, commissioned a report that explains how lithium-ion can pose a significant risk due to thermal runaway, which occurs when internal temperatures exceed safety limits.

This can happen due to a flawed design, low-quality components, or improper charging or discharging. If a fire occurs, it may reignite, making these fires particularly dangerous.

Warning signs

Before a failing lithium battery catches fire, there are often a few warning signs, all of which will require you to take immediate action to stay safe and reduce the risk of fire.

Heat

If your device's battery feels extremely hot to the touch, there is a chance it is defective and may start a fire.

Bulging

If your battery looks swollen, you should stop using it immediately. Similar signs include any type of lump or leaking from the device.

Noise

Failing lithium batteries have also been reported to make hissing or cracking sounds.

Smell

A strong or unusual smell coming from the battery could be a sign of it failing too.

Performance

A failure to fully charge or longer charge times is another a sign that your battery is failing.

Smoke

If your battery or device is smoking, a fire has already started.

If your battery displays any of these signs, turn off the device immediately and unplug it from the power source. Call the device manufacturer or retailer for further instructions.

If the device begins smoking or catches fire, call 999 straight away.

To learn about how to use PEVs more safely, read some of the top tips advised by several councils and charities.

This information has been provided by Prestige Underwriting.