Keeping our customers safe is always our priority. With more products being bought online, from e-bikes and e-scooters to seasonal gadgets like fan lamps, it’s important to be aware of the risks that some cheaper items can bring. While our homes are built to high electrical safety standards, faulty products can still cause problems such as overheating batteries, short circuits, or tripping electrics.

Battery safety for e-bikes and e-scooters

With the increasing number of e-bikes and e-scooters in use across the UK, it’s important to be aware of the risks that come with the lithium-ion batteries that power them. These batteries can overheat, catch fire quickly, and release toxic gases.

In 2024, there were 211 fires in the UK linked to e-bikes and e-scooters, and 93% of them were caused by the battery*. Almost half of these fires were caused by e-bikes that had been converted with aftermarket kits, which significantly increase the risk of faults and fire.

Neil Griffiths, Compliance Business Lead for Fire Safety at Bromford, said: “We’ve seen a sharp rise in battery related fires across the country, and they can have devastating consequences. By following the manufacturer’s instructions and being cautious about where and how you charge, you can greatly reduce the risk and help keep yourself and others safe.”

* Gov.UK- Fires in e-bikes and e-scooters

  • Only buy e-bikes, e-scooters, batteries, and chargers from trusted sellers
  • Always use the correct battery and charger for your model
  • Charge in a safe place, away from exits, and unplug as soon as charging is finished
  • Never charge overnight
  • Don’t modify your battery or attempt your own repairs

A battery may be dangerous if it:

  • becomes extremely hot
  • is swollen or leaking
  • makes unusual noises or smells
  • takes much longer than usual to charge
  • starts smoking

If you notice any of these signs, stop using the battery immediately. Replace it with one from the original manufacturer or consider replacing your e-bike or e-scooter altogether.

Do not store or charge e-bikes or e-scooters in communal areas, shared spaces, or anywhere that could block escape routes and fire exits.

Electrical safety for seasonal gadgets

Some seasonal gadgets, such as lamps with built-in fans, can also create risks in your home. While these products are designed to be convenient, cheaply made items sometimes contain internal wiring that can twist, wear, and cause short circuits or tripping electrics.

Dan Tingle, Electrical Customer Delivery Manager at Bromford, said: "These issues are often hidden inside the product, so they can be hard to spot. The good news is that our homes are electrically safe, the problem usually comes from the gadget itself, not the wiring."

·      Only buy electrical items from trusted sellers and check for safety marks such as UKCA or CE.

·      Be cautious of unusually cheap items or products with multiple functions, like lamps with built-in fans.

·      If your electrics keep tripping and you’re unsure why, remove the gadget and let us check safely.

·      Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and installation.

·      Causes frequent tripping of your electrics

·      Has visible damage to cables or plugs

·      Makes unusual noises or smells when in use

If you notice any of these signs, stop using the item immediately and consider replacing it with a product from a reputable manufacturer.

Whether it’s a battery-powered e-bike, an e-scooter, or a seasonal gadget like a fan lamp, a few simple precautions can keep your home safe. Your home’s wiring is built to high standards, so the risk usually comes from the product itself, not the electrics. By following manufacturer guidance and checking for safety marks, you can enjoy your gadgets safely.