E-bike battery fire prompts safety awareness appeal

Firefighters have issued a warning to cyclists after an e-bike caught fire in Shoreham.

The incident happened in Church Green on Monday afternoon when a lithium-ion battery from an e-bike conversion kit overheated and ignited.

Upon arrival, a team from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service submerged the battery in water to cool it down and used a thermal imaging camera to monitor its temperature.

Crew commander Mike Wattam said: "E-bike conversion kits are becoming increasingly popular, but they pose a serious fire risk when incompatible batteries and chargers are used."

He added: "Electronic devices, batteries and chargers should only be purchased from reputable retailers in order to meet UK product safety standards."

Station manager Darren Wickings, chairman of the multi-organisational lithium-ion awareness group Liberate, advised anyone wanting to convert their bike to seek professional help in doing so.

"Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and do not attempt to modify or tamper with the battery, charger or motor yourself," he said.

"Also use the correct charger to charge your batteries, making sure it's done on a flat, solid and stable surface and that they aren't left charging overnight or while unattended."

He also urged people to have working smoke alarms nearby when charging e-bike batteries and to ensure they do it in an area with a clear means of escape should an emergency arise.

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