Fire Caused by E-Bike Battery Overcharging Destroys Flat in Hanwell
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) is urging residents to follow vital safety advice around e-bikes and e-scooters after a fire broke out at a flat on Jasper Avenue in Hanwell on Sunday evening.
The blaze, which involved an e-bike battery that had reportedly failed due to overcharging and use of an incorrect charger, caused significant damage to a first-floor flat, with minor damage extending to a flat above.
LFB said the fire was first reported at 6:09pm and drew 26 emergency calls from the public. Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters from Ealing, Southall, Acton and Heston stations were dispatched to the scene. The incident was brought under control by 6:53pm.
Fortunately, there were no injuries reported.
LFB: “Do not charge e-bikes on escape routes”
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade issued a renewed #ChargeSafe warning:
“It is vital that you do not store or charge e-bikes or e-scooters on an escape route such as a hallway.
We’ve seen people have to jump from windows or be rescued by firefighters because fires blocked their exit.
Use the correct charger, avoid overcharging, and never charge the device unattended or while sleeping. If you’re converting a bike into an e-bike, have it done by a competent professional.”
The Brigade is urging all e-bike and e-scooter users — or those considering buying one — to review their #ChargeSafe advice to reduce fire risk.
