Government Safety Message on e-bikes and e-scooters
Important Safety Message from OPSS.
If you own an e-bike or e-scooter or are thinking of purchasing one for yourself or someone else, please take note of this Important Safety Message from the UK’s national product regulator, the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).
E-bikes and e-scooters use large lithium-ion batteries which can present a risk of serious fire or explosion in certain circumstances. While these can be used safely, there have been a number of fire incidents involving lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters, including in conversion kits.
OPSS recommends you follow these five steps when purchasing, using or charging your e-bike or e-scooter to reduce fire risks:
- Step 1: RESEARCH – only BUY an e-bike, e-scooter, charger or battery from a known seller and check any product reviews
- Step 2: READ – always READ and FOLLOW the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and using e-bikes or e-scooters
- Step 3: CHECK – not all e-bike or e-scooter batteries and chargers are compatible or safe when used together. Check and only USE the manufacturer’s recommended battery or charger
- Step 4: CHARGE – always charge in a safe place without blocking exits and always UNPLUG your charger when you have finished charging
- Step 5: NEVER – attempt to modify or tamper with your battery
Graham Russell, Chief Executive of OPSS said:
As the popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters increases we have seen more tragic fires in homes where e-bikes or e-scooters are charging. We are stepping up our actions to tackle the sale of unsafe e-bikes and e-scooters but it’s important to remember that manufacturers only assure their e-bikes and e-scooters are safe when used in line with their instructions. I would urge consumers to follow these five steps to reduce risks to their families and homes.
Read further safety information on using and charging e-bikes and e-scooters from Fire England.