Fire safety

Mobility scooters, motorcycles, mopeds, e-bikes and e-scooters

The number of incidents, including fatal fires, that are caused by not storing or charging mobility scooters, e-bikes and e-scooters properly, is rising. That is why, if you use one and keep it at home, you need to follow these essential do’s and don’ts.

  • mobility scooters should be maintained and regularly serviced.
  • do not store mobility scooters, e-bikes or e-scooters near the entrance to your home or anywhere near an escape route - if you have a garage or shed, store them there
  • when you are charging the lithium batteries it’s vital that your battery and charger meet UK safety standards, and you should only buy official batteries from a reputable seller
  • do not modify your battery or charger in any way – always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
  • as soon as your mobility scooter, e-bike or e-scooter is charged, unplug the charger - never leave them charging unattended or overnight
  • make sure there’s a smoke alarm in the area where you charge your mobility scooter, e-bike or e-scooter and test it regularly. You can ensure further protection by using a fire bag for mobility scooters, e-bikes and e-scooters often referred to as fireproof bags or fire containment bags which are designed to reduce the risk of fire spread, particularly when charging lithium-ion batteries
  • if the battery on your vehicle has been damaged from impact, improper storage, or overheating from extreme temperatures it can cause a fire or even an explosion

E-bike or e-scooter batteries can also catch fire even when they are not charging.

Lithium batteries are used on e-scooters, e-bikes and some mobility scooters and they are one of the fastest growing causes of fires. If a fire starts, it spreads very quickly and it can be extremely difficult to escape from. When involved in a fire, lithium batteries generate toxic gases, including carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide. As these gases look like steam, you might not even be aware of the danger if you're close by.

Symptoms of exposure can include -

  • headaches
  • dizziness
  • nausea
  • confusion
  • rapid breathing
  • shortness of breath
  • chest tightness or feeling of suffocation
  • disorientation
  • bizarre behaviour

In the event of a fire caused by a mobility scooter, e-bike or e-scotter -

  • get out, stay out and call 999 immediately
  • do not breathe in the toxic fumes
  • do not attempt to extinguish the fire or move the burning device
  • close doors behind you as you leave, if safe to do so, to help contain the fire

For guidance on lithium batteries see –