Trading standards is warning consumers and businesses about the fire risks associated with e-bike batteries and chargers.
The number of fires, which includes major house and apartment fires, caused by lithium-ion e-scooter and e-bike batteries in the UK has surged over the past year.
Many of the fires have been attributed to e-bike conversion kits, which can be used to convert a standard push bike into an electric bike.
Trading standards is warning consumers to only purchase devices from reputable retailers and to check that they display a valid UKCA or CE mark.
E-bike batteries and conversion kits bought via online marketplaces may not meet the correct safety standards.
Businesses importing and selling e-scooters, e-bikes and conversion kits are also being urged to ensure that the products fully comply with product safety laws.
Cllr Sue Haworth, Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, said:
“If you have an e-bike or e-scooter, it’s vital that you use the right charger for the right battery.
“You should only purchase devices from reputable retailers and check that they display a valid UKCA or CE mark.
“For retailers, it’s just as important.
“Trading standards can seize non-compliant devices and business owners can be prosecuted.
“We advise anyone selling these devices to make sure they comply with product safety laws.”
Here’s some top safety tips:
- Only purchase e-bikes, e-scooters, chargers and batteries from reputable retailers.
- Ensure that any device you use displays a valid UKCA or CE mark.
- Check that separate components, such as batteries and chargers, are compatible with one another.
- Register your product with the manufacturer to validate any warranties on components including batteries. Registering makes it easier for manufacturers to contact you in the event of safety or recall information.
- Check any products you have bought are not subject to a product recall. You can do this by checking Electrical Safety First’s website or the government website.
- E-batteries, like traditional batteries, also need to be disposed of at household waste recycling centres or recycling points and not in household bins.