Charging Electric Bikes Spark Fires Across Hampshire – Fire Service Issues Safety Warning

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service (HIWFRS) has issued a warning about the fire risks of charging electric bikes after two recent incidents in the county.

In Southampton this week, a charging e-bike caught fire inside a property, filling the kitchen, lounge, and first floor with smoke. Firefighters quickly entered the home to extinguish the blaze caused by the lithium-ion battery pack and ventilated the affected areas.

Last month, an electric bike’s battery sparked a garage fire in Aldershot. Although the fire was out on arrival, it produced significant smoke and caused damage to surrounding objects, which firefighters cleared with ventilation fans.

Tracey Webb, HIWFRS’ Prevention Manager, said:

“At this time of year, we know lots of you across Hampshire and Isle of Wight will be out searching for the best gifts to give to your loved ones – we want to ensure those gifts are safe and don’t present a fire risk.

“When buying electrical products such as phones, tablets, e-scooters and other lithium-ion battery devices, we ask that you only do so from reputable retailers, ensuring they meet UK Safety Standards. Use the charger your product came with, don’t overload sockets and never leave them plugged in overnight or unattended.”

HIWFRS is also reminding residents to check that their homes have sufficient working smoke alarms. The service has published further guidance on buying and using safe battery-powered products, especially in the lead-up to Christmas. More information can be found on their website.