A devastating fire that tore through a block of flats in Cornwall Avenue, Bethnal Green on Tuesday, April 9, is believed to have been caused by a lithium-ion battery used in an e-bike or e-scooter, according to London Fire Brigade (LFB).
The fire, which broke out just before 11:40pm, prompted a large-scale emergency response with eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters from %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_0%%, Shoreditch, Bethnal Green, Poplar, and nearby stations attending the scene.
Dozens Rescued, 11 Hospitalised
Firefighters rescued seven people using fire escape hoods, while 17 were treated at the scene by %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_1%% Ambulance Service crews. Eleven people, including at least one child, were taken to hospital. One man reportedly jumped from a second-floor window to %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_2%% the flames but was unhurt.
Thankfully, it has since been confirmed that the condition of the most seriously injured person is no longer life-threatening.
Due to the damage and safety concerns, around 50 residents were relocated to a nearby library, and the %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_3%% association responsible for the building arranged emergency accommodation and support.
Lithium-Ion Batteries to Blame
Following a thorough investigation, %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_4%% determined the most probable cause of the fire was the failure of a lithium-ion battery connected to an e-bike or e-scooter.
"This would have been a terrifying ordeal for all those inside this building," said Deputy Assistant Commissioner Richard Field.
"Firefighters demonstrated great courage bringing multiple people to safety."
He added that multiple e-bikes and e-scooters, some modified or second-hand, were found inside the flat, contributing to the rapid spread of the %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_5%%.
A Growing Fire Risk
The incident highlights the increasing risk posed by lithium-ion battery fires, which have surged in recent years.
"These fires are ferocious and produce extremely toxic smoke," warned Commissioner Field.
"If you own an e-bike or %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_6%%, charge it safely — never while sleeping or near escape routes, and always with the correct charger."
Local Response and Campaigns
%%UKNIP_ANCHOR_7%% Executive Mayor Lutfur Rahman praised the response and reaffirmed the council's commitment to fire safety through its #ChargeSafe campaign.
"We've halved the number of e-bike battery-related fires in the borough, but more needs to be done. If you use one, follow the guidance to protect yourself and others."
Emergency Timeline
- Call received: 11:38pm
- 36 emergency calls taken by Brigade Control
- %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_8%% under control: 1:05am
- Fire survival guidance provided to three residents while awaiting rescue
Residents affected by the fire are continuing to receive support from emergency teams and the local council.
For %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_9%% on e-bike and e-scooter fire safety, visit the London Fire Brigade's #ChargeSafe campaign page.
