As Christmas shopping continues across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, the Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to carefully consider safety when buying electric scooters or electric bikes as presents.
Many of these fires are linked to poor quality batteries and chargers bought cheaply online and often dangerously modified, creating a serious fire risk in the home.
Watch the video below to see just how devastating these fires can be.
Crucial Advice
- Only buy your gifts from reputable retailers
- Always use the official charger and plug
- Never charge them overnight or in hallways and stairways.
- Always follow the safe driving rules set out by the Government – more guidance can be found here:
- Electrical bikes advice
- Electrical scooters advice
- Book your FREE Home Fire Safety Visit
Find more tips on using electric scooters and electric bikes safely in your home here.
Expert Advice
“An electric bike or scooter can be a great gift but only if it is bought and used safely. Cutting corners could put your life at risk. We are reminding everyone in Herefordshire and Worcestershire that safe buying and safe charging this Christmas can help prevent devastating fires.”
Station Commander, John Elsworth
Office for Product Safety and Standards Advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/my-safety-e-bikes-and-e-scooters-battery-charging
This Christmas the safest gift you can give is peace of mind, knowing every present has been chosen, used and enjoyed safely.