53% Rise in E-Bike Fires Year on Year
In December 2023, the London Fire Brigade reported a significant 53% increase in e-bike fires (150 cases) and e-scooter fires (28 cases) compared to 2022. This demonstrates a significant rising threat posed by these products — in particular, their incorrect storage and charging.
E-bikes and e-scooters can be awkward to store and so, they are often kept in unsuitable locations such as:
- Stairwells
- Multi-storey corridors
- Landings
- Walkways
- Or even on balconies and fire escapes themselves.
These are places that, for essential fire safety reasons, should be compartmentalised to keep them a safe means of escape in case of a fire. Narrowing these access routes with obstacles (especially ones that are increasingly the cause of fires) is against fire safety best practices.
For apartment blocks or workplaces especially, ensuring the installation of passive fire protection products like intumescent strips in fire doors, and pipe collars or fire batts through fire walls where pipes or services are penetrating, is essential to compartmentalise the building, keeping the fire escapes clear of fire for a given amount of time, allowing occupants to evacuate safely.
Should the worst happen and a fire break out — because of an e-bike or otherwise — it is essential to keep your evacuation routes clear of obstacles and keep them free from fire.
For more fire safety trends — like the 53% rise in e-bike fires year on year — and guidance, visit the Fire Seals Direct advice centre with any questions you may have.
