Emergency Response and Safety Advice
Stuart West, station commander at the scene, stated: “This incident is a stark reminder of the importance of following our safety advice when using e-bikes and e-scooters. In this case, the battery of a converted e-bike had been left charging overnight and into the day. When it failed, it resulted in an intense %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_1%%.
Fire crews worked diligently to contain the blaze quickly, targeting the flames through an %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_2%% window to limit further damage. Fortunately, the occupant was alerted to the fire and managed to evacuate the property safely.
Two in hospital and %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_3%% damaged after e-bike fire in Bromley
Rising Risks of E-Bike Fires
The %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_4%% has highlighted the increasing risks associated with e-bikes and e-scooters, noting that they are among %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_5%%'s fastest-growing fire hazards. Since the %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_6%%start of 2023, there has been an e-bike or %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_7%% fire, on average, every other day.
A spokesperson for the brigade urged e-bike and e-scooter owners to adhere to safety guidelines: “It is vital that you do not store or charge the device on an %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_8%% route such as a hallway. We have seen incidents where people have had to %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_9%%jump from windows or be rescued by firefighters because their escape route has been blocked by fire or smoke.”
They further advised: “When charging, ensure you are using the correct charger, as mismatching increases fire risk. Never charge an e-bike or e-scooter unattended or while sleeping.”
The brigade received five emergency calls regarding the fire, dispatching four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Bromley, %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_10%%, and %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_11%%. The fire was brought under control by 11.59am.
