Firefighters are issuing another reminder about using e-bikes and e-scooter safely after a fire on Eastney Road in Croydon.
Part of a ground floor flat in a three-storey residential block was damaged by fire. A man and a woman, who left the flat before firefighters arrived, were treated at the scene by London Ambulance crews for smoke inhalation. One dog was rescued from the flat by firefighters.
The fire is being treated as accidental and is believed to have been caused by the catastrophic failure of a lithium battery back on a converted e-bike that was on charge at the time of the fire.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "E-bikes and e-scooters have become London's fastest-growing fire risk. In 2023, there was a fire, on average, once every two days.
"E-bikes and e-scooters can be a fun and sustainable way of getting around London but the stark reality is that some of these vehicles are proving to be incredibly dangerous if they are not used safely. In 2023, three people died and more than 60 people were hurt. We encourage people to follow our top tips on how to store and charge their e-bikes and e-scooters safely.
"From previous investigations, we know many of the fires we’ve attended have involved second-hand vehicles or the bike has been modified using parts bought online. It’s important to get a conversion carried out by a professional or a competent person.
"It’s also important to make sure the conversion kits, batteries and chargers you’re purchasing for the bike is from a reputable seller. At this time, there is not the same level of regulation of products for e-bikes and e-scooters sold via online marketplaces or auction sites when compared to high street shops, so we cannot be confident that products meet the correct safety standards."
The Brigade continues to call for much-needed legislation for online marketplaces to ensure products like batteries, chargers and conversion kits are strictly regulated.
The spokesperson added: "People can also help keep themselves and others safer by always using the correct charger for the vehicle and not leaving it charging unattended or overcharging. If you cannot store or charge the vehicle outside or in a shed, make sure it is not on an escape route within the property."
The Brigade's 999 Control Officers received five calls about the fire. The Brigade was called at 0400 and the fire was extinguished by 0449. Two fire engines from Croydon Fire Station and a fire engine from Norbury Fire Station attended the scene.
Safety tips for e-bike and e-scooter users to follow