London Fire Brigade teams up with Amazon and Deliveroo to reduce e-bike and e-scooter fire risks

London Fire Brigade has joined forces with companies such as Amazon and Deliveroo to spread its #ChargeSafe fire safety message.

This collaboration comes as the Brigade tackles an increasing number of e-bike and e-scooter fires in London.

According to the Brigade, firefighters responded to 179 such fires in 2023, which resulted in three fatalities and over 60 injuries.

So far in 2024, approximately 100 fires involving these devices have been recorded.

The #ChargeSafe campaign is designed to raise awareness about the proper use and maintenance of e-bikes and e-scooters to reduce fire hazards.

By partnering with Amazon and Deliveroo, the London Fire Brigade is ensuring that safety advice reaches both customers and delivery riders.

Deliveroo roadshows help raise awareness among riders

Deliveroo has been actively participating in the #ChargeSafe campaign through its Rider Roadshows.

Most recently, Deliveroo riders visited Shoreditch Fire Station to receive fire safety guidance from firefighters and learn about the dangers associated with e-bike fires.

The event included videos demonstrating the rapid spread of these fires and provided practical advice on safe charging and storage.

London Fire Brigade has been present at other roadshows held across the city, engaging with riders in areas such as Ealing, Wimbledon, and Marble Arch.

The events aim to educate delivery riders about safety precautions to take when using e-bikes.

Amazon collaboration targets online buyers of e-bikes and accessories

Amazon, as a major online marketplace for e-bikes and related accessories, has also joined the #ChargeSafe campaign.

Customers purchasing e-bikes, batteries, and chargers from the platform now receive safety advice directly via email.

These notifications provide simple, actionable tips to help users reduce the risk of fire.

Amazon is also enforcing stricter safety standards by requiring sellers to provide proof of compliance with applicable laws and documented testing from accredited laboratories.

The Brigade hopes this collaboration will help ensure that buyers receive safer products.

Government introduces new product safety legislation

In addition to these partnerships, new legislation is on the horizon to further protect consumers.

The UK Government announced a Product Safety and Metrology Bill in the King’s Speech in July, which aims to regulate high-risk products such as e-bike batteries and chargers.

This Bill will provide new regulatory powers to enforce safety standards and reduce the fire risks associated with these devices.

London Fire Brigade Deputy Commissioner Charlie Pugsley welcomed the legislation and highlighted the impact of e-bike and e-scooter fires, saying that three deaths in London last year resulted from such fires.

None of the victims owned the e-bikes involved.

The Brigade hopes this Bill will help protect consumers and reduce fire risks.

E-bike and e-scooter top safety tips

Consumers are advised to follow key safety measures when using e-bikes and e-scooters to minimise fire risks.

These include ensuring that escape routes are not blocked by these devices, using the correct charger, and avoiding modification of the battery.

The Brigade also emphasises the importance of buying from reputable sellers and checking for UKCA or CE marks on products.

Users should be vigilant for any signs of malfunction, such as batteries becoming hot to the touch or changing shape.

The Brigade also recommends allowing batteries to cool before recharging and installing smoke alarms where the devices are charged.

London Fire Brigade partners with major companies to promote e-bike and e-scooter fire safety: summary

London Fire Brigade has collaborated with Amazon and Deliveroo as part of its #ChargeSafe campaign to combat the rising fire risks associated with e-bikes and e-scooters in London.

In 2023, the Brigade responded to 179 fires involving these devices, resulting in three deaths and over 60 injuries.

Deliveroo has engaged riders through roadshows, while Amazon is sending fire safety tips to customers purchasing e-bike products.

Additionally, new UK legislation has been announced to regulate the safety of e-bike batteries and chargers, aiming to reduce the fire risks posed by these products.