Warning issued across Somerset and Devon as e-bike and e-scooter battery fires rise
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
A safety warning has been issued across Somerset and Devon after a sharp rise in fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters, with residents urged to take extra care when buying, charging and storing battery-powered transport.
New figures from the Fire Protection Association show there were a record 432 fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters across the UK in 2025. Many of these incidents involved lithium-ion batteries, which can fail suddenly and cause intense fires.
The growing risk has prompted Heart of the South West Trading Standards to issue an urgent warning to consumers.
Fakir Osman, assistant director of regulatory services for Heart of the South West Trading Standards, said: “Battery fires linked to e-bikes and e-scooters are rising fast, and some have devastating consequences.
“If you are buying one, choose a reputable retailer.
“Make sure the bike, battery and charger meet UK safety standards.
“Cutting corners to save money could put lives at risk.”
The warning follows an increase in similar incidents reported by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in everyday items such as mobile phones and laptops, but if they fail they can ignite quickly, creating intense heat and dangerous smoke. Fire services have warned that these incidents pose a serious risk to people, homes and emergency responders.
Kate Saint, head of prevention at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Fires involving lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters can develop incredibly quickly, producing intense heat, toxic smoke and leaving people with very little time to escape.
“We’re seeing a significant increase in these incidents, and they are especially dangerous when bikes or scooters are stored or charged in hallways or near front doors, as a fire can quickly block the only escape route from a property.”
She urged owners to check their equipment regularly, use only the correct charger supplied for their device and avoid charging batteries near escape routes or overnight.
Businesses have also been reminded that privately owned e-scooters remain illegal to use on public roads and pavements unless they are part of a government-approved rental scheme.
Trading Standards said consumers should only buy e-bikes and e-scooters from trusted retailers, check that products carry UKCA or CE safety markings, avoid modified batteries and be cautious of unusually cheap deals.
Batteries should never be charged overnight or near building exits, and unwanted batteries should be disposed of safely.
Mr Osman added: “This is a growing risk, but it is preventable.”
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