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11th September 2026
Stay Safe When Using and Charging E-Bikes
E-bikes have become an increasingly popular way to travel. They are convenient, environmentally friendly and can help people save money on transport costs. However, it is important to understand that the lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes can pose a serious fire risk if they are damaged, faulty, poorly maintained or charged incorrectly.
Across the UK, there has been a significant increase in fires involving e-bikes, e-scooters and lithium-ion batteries. These fires can start without warning, spread extremely quickly and produce large amounts of toxic smoke, putting lives at risk. In some cases, residents have had only seconds to escape.
Why Are Lithium-Ion Battery Fires So Dangerous?
Lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a small space. If a battery becomes damaged, overheats, is exposed to water, or is charged using the wrong equipment, it can enter a process known as "thermal runaway".
When this happens, the battery can rapidly generate heat, catch fire and even explode. Unlike many other types of fires, lithium-ion battery fires can be difficult to extinguish and may reignite even after appearing to be out.
In blocks of flats and residential buildings, these fires can spread quickly to other homes and communal areas, putting neighbours, visitors and emergency services at risk.
The Growing Risk Across the UK
This is not a theoretical risk. Fire services across the UK are attending an increasing number of incidents involving e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries. Statistics from UK fire and rescue services show that 432 e-bike fires were recorded during 2025, a 38% increase on the 313 fires reported in 2024 and more than five times higher than the number recorded in 2021. [ciltuk.org.uk], [thefpa.co.uk]
Many of these incidents have been linked to faulty or damaged batteries, unsafe charging practices, modified e-bikes and counterfeit chargers. Fire services continue to warn that battery fires can spread rapidly, produce toxic smoke and have devastating consequences for homes and families. [thefpa.co.uk], [gov.uk]
These statistics highlight why it is so important to charge e-bikes safely, use approved equipment and never block escape routes with bikes or batteries.
How to Reduce the Risk
Use the Correct Charger
Always use the charger supplied with your e-bike or one approved by the manufacturer.
Using incompatible or counterfeit chargers can cause batteries to overheat and fail. Avoid buying cheap replacement chargers from unknown online sellers.
Never Charge Overnight
Do not leave batteries charging while you are asleep or away from home.
If a fault develops, you may not notice until it is too late. Charge batteries when you are awake and able to monitor them.
Keep Escape Routes Clear
Never charge or store e-bikes, e-scooters or batteries in:
- Communal corridors
- Stairwells
- Entrance lobbies
- Shared storage areas
- Fire exits or escape routes
- Balconies
If a fire starts in these locations, residents may be unable to leave the building safely.
Watch for Warning Signs
Stop using a battery immediately if it:
- Becomes unusually hot
- Shows signs of swelling
- Leaks fluid
- Emits a strange smell
- Makes unusual noises
- Shows signs of physical damage
These can be indicators that the battery is failing and could catch fire.
Protect Batteries from Heat
Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, radiators, heaters and other heat sources.
Excessive heat can damage batteries and increase the likelihood of failure.
Buy from Reputable Retailers
Only purchase e-bikes, batteries and charging equipment from trusted retailers and manufacturers.
Cheap, untested or counterfeit products may not meet UK safety standards and can present a much greater fire risk.
Register Your Product
Where possible, register your e-bike and battery with the manufacturer.
This allows manufacturers to contact you quickly if a product safety issue, recall or urgent warning is identified.
If a Battery Catches Fire
If you see flames, sparks or heavy smoke coming from a battery:
- Leave the area immediately.
- Warn others nearby.
- Close doors behind you if safe to do so.
- Call 999 and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service.
- Do not attempt to tackle a large battery fire yourself.
Your safety must always come first.
Keeping Our Communities Safe
We want all residents to enjoy the benefits of e-bikes while keeping themselves, their families and neighbours safe.
By following these simple precautions, you can help reduce the risk of fire and ensure that our homes and communal areas remain safe for everyone.
A lithium-ion battery fire can develop in less than a minute and fill a property with thick, toxic smoke. Please take these risks seriously and follow the safety advice every time you charge your e-bike. Your actions could help protect your home, your family and your neighbours.
If you have any questions about fire safety in your building, please contact our Housing Team.
Stay safe, stay alert, and always charge responsibly.
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