Avon Fire & Rescue Service teams up with Deliveroo to promote safe battery charging for e-bikes and e-scooters

In response to a rising number of fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters, we teamed up with Deliveroo to educate riders on safe batter charging practices. This year alone, we have witnessed 57 fires linked lithium-ion batteries highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.

On Tuesday, 17 September, Deliveroo riders gathered in Bristol City Centre for a Rider Roadshow. During the event, firefighters spoke to riders about the potential dangers of e-bike and e-scooter fires, showing just how rapidly they can spread and the intensity of these incidents. Riders received key advice on how to use, charge, and store their e-bikes and e-scooters safely.

Watch Manager Jon Westwood, who organised the event, emphasised the importance of raising awareness and following safety advice, he said: “Our priority is the safety of everyone using e-bikes and e-scooters. Whether you’re a Deliveroo rider or a local resident, it’s vital to understand the risks and take the necessary precautions to prevent fires. By following our simple safety advice, we can significantly reduce the risk of battery fires to keep all of us safer.”

Paul Bedford, Director of Policy and Sustainability at Deliveroo said: “At Deliveroo, the safety of our riders is a top priority and we’re proud to partner with the Avon Fire & Rescue Service. We support riders who want to use sustainable vehicles whilst riding with us, but it’s so important those who sell this equipment ensure it meets the highest safety standards. Our Rider Roadshows provide a fantastic platform to engage with riders directly on how they can use their e-bikes safely and responsibly. Together, we can reduce the risk of fires and promote a safer environment for all e-bike users in the area.”

If you have an e-bike or e-scooter, or are considering buying one, remember:

• Buy your e-bike or e-scooter form a reputable seller.
• Never block your escape routes with an e-bike or e-scooter.
• Only use the correct charger for your battery, otherwise you can greatly increase the risk of fire.
• Never charge your e-bike or e-scooter unattended or while you are sleeping.
• Don’t modify or tamper with the batteries.
• Get a professional to carry out an e-bike conversion.
• Fit working smoke alarms where you are storing or charging your e-bike or e-scooter.
• Never try and tackle a fire yourself. Get away safely and call 999.

By following these safety tips, e-bike and e-scooter users can help prevent fires and ensure the safe use of their devices.