E-bikes and e-scooters are the Capital’s fastest growing fire risk, with the London Fire Brigade (LFB) having attended more than 130 fires this year involving an e-bike or scooter.
In the wake of several high-profile fires caused by faulty batteries, fire chiefs and industry experts are hoping to educate the public about their safe use.
Getting around the city on Electric bikes and scooters, however, has become one of the fastest growing transport trends.
Earlier this month, a fire thought to be caused by lithium battery in a modified e-bike damaged this home in Woolwich.
Fires can start when these batteries are damaged or faulty. The LFB have also advised against modifying a pedal bike with a DIY conversion kit.
Research by the Electric Bike Alliance found that 94% of retailers believe that the British public cannot identify an unsafe e-bike.
That’s why cycling charities, organisations and traders have launched a campaign to help people enjoy the benefits of e-bikes, without the risks.
Mike Rice, the CEO of a major bike retailer, is part of the E-Bike Positive campaign. He expressed the importance of e-bikes as a mode of transport, particularly in London:
It’s a really efficient, cost-effective way of travelling, particularly for people commuting in London. You get the health benefits of cycling and the cost savings over utilising public transport.
Mike Rice, CEO of bike retailer and supporter of E-Bikes
In July, the government announced its plan for a new product safety bill, which would bring in further legislation to address the fire risk associated with lithium batteries.
Mike emphasised the importance of being mindful when shopping for e-bikes online:
“Look for a reputable brand. Purchasing the bike from a reputable, established brand will ensure that you can have it serviced”.
A fire caused by an E-bike
E-Bike positive campaigner Mike Rice
With further legislation on the way, fire chiefs and the industry will continue their efforts to inform the public.
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HeadlineE-Bikes are the fastest growing fire risk in London
Short HeadlineE-Bikes fastest growing fire risk in London
StandfirstA number of major fires have been caused by the bikes' lithium batteries
E-bikes and e-scooters are the Capital’s fastest growing fire risk, with the London Fire Brigade (LFB) having attended more than 130 fires this year involving an e-bike or scooter.
In the wake of several high-profile fires caused by faulty batteries, fire chiefs and industry experts are hoping to educate the public about their safe use.
Getting around the city on Electric bikes and scooters, however, has become one of the fastest growing transport trends.
Earlier this month, a fire thought to be caused by lithium battery in a modified e-bike damaged this home in Woolwich.
Fires can start when these batteries are damaged or faulty. The LFB have also advised against modifying a pedal bike with a DIY conversion kit.
Research by the Electric Bike Alliance found that 94% of retailers believe that the British public cannot identify an unsafe e-bike.
That’s why cycling charities, organisations and traders have launched a campaign to help people enjoy the benefits of e-bikes, without the risks.
Mike Rice, the CEO of a major bike retailer, is part of the E-Bike Positive campaign. He expressed the importance of e-bikes as a mode of transport, particularly in London:
It’s a really efficient, cost-effective way of travelling, particularly for people commuting in London. You get the health benefits of cycling and the cost savings over utilising public transport.
Mike Rice, CEO of bike retailer and supporter of E-Bikes
In July, the government announced its plan for a new product safety bill, which would bring in further legislation to address the fire risk associated with lithium batteries.
Mike emphasised the importance of being mindful when shopping for e-bikes online:
“Look for a reputable brand. Purchasing the bike from a reputable, established brand will ensure that you can have it serviced”.
A fire caused by an E-bike
E-Bike positive campaigner Mike Rice
With further legislation on the way, fire chiefs and the industry will continue their efforts to inform the public.
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