The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has issued an urgent warning to e-bike and e-scooter users following a serious fire at a flat on Jasper Avenue, Hanwell, on Sunday evening.
The blaze was sparked by an e-bike battery failure, reportedly caused by overcharging and the use of an incorrect charger. The fire resulted in extensive damage to a first-floor flat and minor damage to the flat above. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
LFB crews responded promptly and had the fire under control by 6:53pm. A spokesperson highlighted the rapid spread of such fires, especially in flats with shared hallways, stating, “We’ve seen people forced to jump from windows to escape.”
In response to the incident, the London Fire Brigade has issued critical #ChargeSafe advice to all e-bike and e-scooter users and buyers. The guidance includes:
- Only using the charger supplied with your device
- Charging batteries on a hard, non-flammable surface
- Never leaving charging devices unattended for long periods
- Ensuring battery repairs and replacements are carried out by competent professionals
“It’s crucial to follow the correct charging procedures,” the Brigade emphasised. “Don’t risk your home or life by cutting corners.”
As electric bikes and scooters become increasingly popular in London, incidents like the Hanwell fire highlight the dangers of improper battery handling. Londoners are urged to take all necessary precautions to keep their homes and families safe.
Originally published by UKNIP.
