In partnership with Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service, the Gloucestershire Housing Providers Forum are encouraging our local residents to be aware of the potential dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries. These can be found in e-bikes, e-scooters and some mobility scooters, they can be a fire risk item if the charging instructions are not followed correctly.
There is growing concerns about converter kits sold online, which do not meet UK safety regulations and therefore present an increased fire risk. GFRS have attended various fires involving e bikes and scooters over the past 12 months.
Recent fires caused by items with lithium-ion batteries have resulted in injuries to people and extensive damage to their homes.
Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service promote following the helpful guidance below when charging your e-bike or e-scooter:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and always unplug your charger when it’s finished charging.
- Ensure you have a working smoke alarm where you charge your e-bike or e-scooter.
- Charge batteries whilst you are awake and alert. Do not charge batteries overnight while you are asleep or away from your home.
- Always use the approved manufacturer’s charger for the e-bike or e-scooter. Buy an official replacement charger/battery from a reputable seller.
- Do not cover chargers or battery packs when charging as this could lead to overheating.
- Do not charge batteries or store your e-bike or e-scooter near combustible or flammable materials.
- Do not over charge the battery.
- Do not overload sockets or electrical outlets and do not use inappropriate or faulty extension leads.
Important Reminder to Residents Regarding Communal Areas
Both the Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service and your landlord are committed to doing everything reasonably practical to keep all residents and the buildings you live in safe, and we are sure that you are doing what you can to ensure good fire safety and prevention of fire risks.
We would like to remind you that:
- You are not permitted to store or charge e-bikes or e-scooters in any communal area.
- No items should be left or stored in a communal area that causes an obstruction to emergency exit routes, exit or entrance doors or that pose a general fire or safety risk to the block and those living or visiting the home within the block.
Keep It Clear, Keep It Safe,
Protect your Family and your Home
All internal and external areas that are shared, including (but not limited to) corridors, hallways, stairwells, lobbies, walkways, cupboards and under stairs are classed as a communal area and whilst most residents comply with what’s set out in their tenancy or lease agreements regarding safety and fire safety, there are some who continue to store items in communal areas. Unfortunately, this compromises everyone’s safety as Items left or stored in communal areas can block emergency exit routes, create a fire risk and cause a slip or tripping hazard. We must work together to keep each other safe.
If you are concerned about the fire safety in your home or your block, you should contact your landlord. You can also complete your own online Home Fire Safety Check www.glosfire.gov.uk
