Last updated: 06/03/2025, 11:14 AM

E-scooter fire - Hither Green

05/03/2025 22:25
Lewisham
House or flat fire
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Firefighters are issuing another reminder about using e-bikes and e-scooters safely after a flat fire on Castillon Road in Hither Green.

Two men and one woman jumped from a first floor flat before the Brigade arrived on scene. 

Most of the flat was damaged in the fire, the fire blew through an internal wall to the next bedroom also taking off the bedroom's door. The window in the room where the fire started also blew out.

The fire is believed to have been caused by the failure of lithium batteries in an e-scooter.

Station Commander Paul Meyrick was at the scene, he said: "This fire is yet another example of why we are so concerned about e-bikes and e-scooters and why we’re running our #ChargeSafe campaign to raise awareness of the fire risks associated with these vehicles.

“It was a really visible fire with flames coming out of the window. The Brigade's 999 Control officers received 12 calls alerting them to the blaze. 

“The fire happened in a room near the entrance to the flat leaving the occupants unable to escape. It highlights the importance of never blocking an escape route with anything, including e-bikes and e-scooters. Store them somewhere well away from a main through route. Our advice is to store these items in a safe location if possible, such as a garage or a shed. If this is not possible, make sure the device is in a room where you can shut a door and contain a fire."

In 2024, London Fire Brigade recorded 142 fires involving e-bikes along with 29 e-scooters. This means that on average, there was an e-bike or e-scooter fire once every other day.

Three people have died in fires caused by e-bike battery failures in London since 2023 and more than 100 people have been hurt.

The lithium batteries that power these vehicles store a huge amount of energy in a very small space. If that energy is released in an uncontrolled way, then a fire or explosion may result.

The Brigade is predominantly seeing fires where these batteries have been purchased from online which may not meet the correct safety standards.

Lithium batteries are susceptible to failure if incorrect chargers are used and there is a significant risk posed by e-bikes and e-scooters which have been converted.

The Brigade was called to this fire at 2225 and the fire was extinguished by 0034. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from Lee Green, Lewisham and Forest Hill fire stations attended the scene.

Safety tips for e-bike and e-scooter users to follow  

  • Never block your escape route with anything, including e-bikes and e-scooters. Store them somewhere away from a main through route. Our advice is to store these items in a safe external location if possible, such as a garage or a shed. 
  • Always use the correct charger and buy an official one from a reputable seller. 
  • Do not attempt to modify or tamper with your battery. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.  
  • Converting pedal bikes into e-bikes using DIY kits bought online can be very dangerous. They pose a higher risk of fire. Get a professional to carry out the conversion and make sure to buy a battery from a reputable seller and that it is not second-hand.  
  • Check your battery and charger meets UK safety standards.  We have particular concern where batteries have been purchased from online marketplaces and when they've been sourced on the internet, which may not meet the correct safety standards.  
  • Watch out for signs that the battery or charger aren’t working as they should – e.g. if the battery is hot to the touch or has changed shape.  
  • Let the battery cool before charging. Batteries can get warm during their use and it is advisable to allow them to cool down before attempting to re-charge as they could be more susceptible to failure if overheated. If you are charging batteries indoors, please follow our advice on safe charging. 
  • Unplug your charger once it’s finished charging. Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when charging and we would advise not to leave it unattended or while people are asleep.
  • Fit alarms where you charge. Ensure you have smoke alarms fitted in areas where e-bikes or e-scooters are being charged and make sure they are tested regularly. You can quickly and easily check your home by visiting our free online home fire safety checker tool