E-bike and electric scooter safety

We’re urging customers to be aware of the potential dangers posed by the lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters.

An e-bike battery caused a fire at one of our tower blocks in Salford, which gutted the 10th floor flat and resulted in the building being partially evacuated. Thankfully no one was injured, but the outcome could have been very different.

We’ve carried out extensive building safety improvements to all our tower blocks, which helped ensure the fire was contained to the flat where it originated.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has seen a rise in e-bike related fires, and we are seeing more of our tenants owning and using e-bikes and e-scooters, so we want to ensure people are taking the necessary steps to ensure you’re not putting people’s lives or homes at risk.

Following this advice can help keep yourself, your home and your neighbours safe from the potential dangers of e-bike or electric scooter batteries:

• Never charge your electric bikes or scooters while you’re sleeping or not at home
• Unplug your charger once it’s finished charging
• Only charge batteries in a room that has fire or heat detectors fitted
• Never charge or store e-bikes or e-scooters in hallways, corridors or near exits, and never block your escape route with your e-bike or scooter
• Never tamper with the battery and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
• Do not use or charge batteries that appear damaged, swollen, leaking or excessively hot
• Store batteries away from flammable materials and never on beds or sofas
• Ensure your battery and charger meets UK safety standards and always use the correct charger
• Never cover your charger as this could lead to it overheating or setting on fire
• Be wary of DIY kits bought on-line to convert a standard bike into an e-bike
• If a battery overheats, smokes or catches fire, leave the property immediately and call 999
• Test your smoke alarms regularly, at least monthly