E-bike charging warning by London Fire Brigade after string of blazes

Firefighters have issued an e-bike safety warning after a flat fire in Limehouse on Saturday (February 25).
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London Fire Brigade has issued a safety warning about e-bike charging after a fire in Limehouse on Saturday (February 25).

The blaze destroyed most of a three-room flat in Copenhagen Place.

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Four men at the property were able to escape before the firefighters arrived.

One of the men was taken to hospital for treatment for smoke inhalation after being assessed at the scene by London Ambulance Service.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by a faulty lithium-ion battery in an e-bike.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “It’s incredibly concerning we are continuing to see a rise in incidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters.

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“When these batteries and chargers fail, they do so with ferocity and because the fires develop so rapidly the situation can quickly become incredibly serious.

“Lithium-ion batteries are susceptible to failure if incorrect chargers are used and there is a significant risk posed by e-scooters which have been converted.”

LFB said that it has predominantly been seeing fires caused by batteries that have been purchased online, and that might not meet the correct safety standards.

It recommends charging e-bikes in safe location, such as a shed or garage if possible.

An e-bike damaged by fire An e-bike damaged by fire
An e-bike damaged by fire
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If e-bikes must be stored inside, the fire brigade recommends making sure there is a smoke detector fitted nearby and ensuring exit routes from the property are not obstructed.

An LFB spokesperson added: “We would also suggest people try not to charge them when they are asleep, so that if there is an issue they can react quickly.”