Charging and storing e-bikes, e-scooters and mobility scooters safely

E-bikes, e-scooters and mobility scooters use large lithium-ion batteries. These can cause serious fires that spread quickly and burn at high temperatures.  

It’s important to charge and store your e-bike or scooter safely to reduce fire risks. 

• Read the safety message from the Office for Product Safety and Standards
• View the Home Office video: Fire kills - e-bike and e-scooter fire safety
• View the London Fire Brigade's BLS video: e-bike and e-scooter safety

Research before you buy 

Only buy an e-bike, e-scooter or mobility scooter charger or battery from a known seller and check product reviews. 

Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions 

Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and using e-bikes, e-scooters or mobility scooters. Not all batteries and chargers are compatible or safe when used together. You should:

• only use the manufacturer’s recommended battery or charger 
• never modify or tamper with your battery

How to spot a failing battery 

Before a device’s battery catches fire, there may be signs that it is about to fail. These include: 

• heat: the battery feels extremely hot to the touch 
• bulging: the battery bulges or is swollen out of shape - you should stop using it immediately 
• noise: there may be hissing or cracking sounds 
• smell: there may be a strong or unusual smell coming from the battery 
• performance: the battery may take longer to charge or may not charge fully 

The London Fire Brigade has more information on the warning signs e-bikes and e-scooters could start a fire.

Charging safely

Always charge in a safe place that does not block your exit route and always unplug your charger when you’ve finished charging.

You cannot charge your e-bike, e-scooter or mobility scooter in communal areas. 

• Read the London Fire Brigade guidance on charging batteries safely. 
• Fire England: How to keep your home safe when charging your e-bike or e-scooter 
• GOV.UK: Battery safety for e-scooter users 
• GOV.UK: Battery safety for e-bike users 

Storing your e-bike, e-scooter or mobility scooter 

If you live in a council-owned building, you cannot store e-bikes, e-scooters or mobility scooters in communal areas, as this could block escape routes.  

Email [email protected] if you have a question about storing e-bikes, e-scooters or mobility scooters safely.