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E-scooters and staying safe

17 April 2025 - Home
E-bikes and e-scooters are a great way to get around, but they can also pose a fire risk. This is because they contain lithium batteries which can become dangerous when they begin to fail or become damaged, especially when they’re being charged.

The government’s Office for Product Safety and Standards says there were 199 fires reported involving an e-bike or e-scooter in 2023. Half of these took place inside a home. 

Tania Emery, Building Safety Director, says: “Accidental electrical fires can have a devastating on the life of you and your family. With e-bikes and e-scooters becoming more common, it’s important to make sure the batteries are in good condition and that they’re not charged in communal areas where they could pose a risk to everyone in a building.” 

Here are some top tips for staying safe: 

  • Never charge e-bikes or e-scooters in communal areas 

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging and always use the correct charger 

  • Buy any replacement items such as batteries or chargers from a reputable seller 

  • Make sure you’re there during charging, and unplug it when completed 

  • Avoid overloading plug sockets by adding multiple extensions and adapters. 

More safety guidance around e-bikes and e-scooter can be found on the National Fire Chiefs Council website. 

We also have more information about electrical safety and what we do to help keep you safe on our electrical safety in your home help page.