Safety guide for charging e‑scooters, e‑bikes and hoverboards

To help reduce the risk of fire when charging e-bikes and e-scooters, we've put together a quick safety guide using information from Electronic Safety First.

Escape routes

Do not block your exit or escape routes with charging batteries, e-bikes or e-scooters. Store them somewhere away from a main access point or route. If possible, keep them in safe locations such as a garage or shed.

Safety standards

Ensure your battery and charger meets the correct UK safety standards. Be aware of cheaper alternatives that can be found on online marketplaces, which may not be regulated.

Instead, buy your devices, equipment and chargers from a trusted retailer that meets UK safety standards.

Warning signs

Watch out for signs that the battery or charger are not working correctly. If the battery appears hot to the touch or has changed shape, it's time to replace it.

You can read about some of the other warning signs in our article on fire safety tips for personal electronic vehicles.

Charge with care

You should let the battery cool before charging and unplug your charger once it has finished. Do not overcharge your battery.

Always follow the manufacturer's charging instructions too. It is advised not to leave the battery unattended or charging while people are asleep.

Do not use extension leads or charging strips to charge these batteries either. When they are charging, you should not cover them with anything.

Finally, ensure smoke alarms are fitted where you charge your e-bike, e-scooter, hoverboard or other high powered devices.

This information has been provided by Prestige Underwriting. It contains advice from London Fire Brigade, Dublin City Council and Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue.