The Hidden Danger of Electric Bicycles and Scooters: Fires and Fatalities

be tragic.”

Here are some tips to avoid the risk of battery fires:

• Charge your electric bicycle or scooter in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials.
• Use the charger provided by the manufacturer and avoid using cheap or counterfeit chargers.
• Do not leave your vehicle charging unattended for long periods of time.
• Regularly inspect the battery for any signs of damage or overheating.
• If you notice any unusual smells or smoke coming from the battery, immediately disconnect it from the charger and contact the manufacturer.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper storage and maintenance of the battery.
• Consider storing your electric vehicle in a safe place, such as a garage or shed, rather than inside your home.

By following these precautions, you can help reduce the risk of battery fires and ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.

Deliverers and employees in New York City are increasingly relying on electric bicycles and scooters for their daily commute. While these forms of “micro-mobility” help reduce air pollution, they also pose a risk to public safety. The batteries in these vehicles, which contain significantly more energy than smartphone batteries, are prone to catching fire.

The New York Times reported that Laura Kavanagh, the city’s fire marshal, expressed alarm over the “particularly dangerous” nature of these fires. This concern comes after an explosion at an e-bike store in Chinatown resulted in four fatalities.

New York is not the only city affected by battery explosions. Over 200 incidents of overheating or fire related to micro-mobility have been reported in 39 US states, resulting in nearly 20 fatalities, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. London has also experienced similar incidents, with the fire brigade reporting 52 fires related to electric bicycles and 12 fires related to electric scooters since the beginning of the year.

The London Fire Brigade shared a video on Twitter showing the dangers of a faulty e-bike lithium battery catching fire and exploding. They emphasized the importance of purchasing batteries from reputable sources to avoid potential hazards.

In France, a fire broke out on the balcony of an apartment in Hyères due to a charging electric bike. The fire was quickly brought under control by firefighters, who called for caution when charging electric vehicles.

Fires caused by lithium batteries in New York have become a major concern, surpassing kitchen fires and poorly extinguished cigarettes as the leading cause of fatal fires in the city. The rise of these incidents can be attributed to a lack of regulations and safety checks for micro-mobility vehicles, as well as unsafe charging practices and a lack of secure charging areas in densely populated cities.

The Covid-19 pandemic has also played a role in the increase of electric bicycles and scooters on the streets. The disruption of public transport and the surge in demand for home deliveries have led to a mass influx of these vehicles, some of which may not meet recognized safety standards.

To address these issues, New York City plans to ban the sale of e-bikes and other e-mobility devices that do not meet safety standards. Illegal charging stations will also be closed, and prevention campaigns will be launched to educate both delivery employees and the general public.

Even self-service electric bicycles are not exempt from the risk of battery fires. Citi Bike, the New York equivalent of Paris’ Vélib’, experienced a fire in its Brooklyn warehouse while recharging electric bicycles in 2019. Security protocols have since been implemented to prevent similar incidents.

Experts have noted that electric cars, which can also be charged at home, are subject to more regulations and controls, reducing the risk of battery fires. However, the same level of regulation has not been applied to electric two-wheelers.

To avoid tragedies, it is advised to charge electric bikes and scooters outside the home whenever possible. If charging indoors is necessary, it is crucial to unplug the device at night and when leaving the accommodation to minimize the risk of a fire.

The rise of battery fires in micro-mobility vehicles highlights the need for stricter regulations, safer charging practices, and increased awareness among users. By addressing these issues, cities can ensure the safety of their residents while still benefiting from the convenience and environmental advantages of electric bicycles and scooters.

How can individuals contribute to reducing the risk of battery fires and ensuring the safety of themselves and others when using electric bicycles and scooters

Ion and safety precautions surrounding the use and storage of electric bicycles and scooters.

To avoid the risk of battery fires, it is crucial to follow certain safety measures. Firstly, it is recommended to charge your electric vehicle in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials. This helps prevent the buildup of heat and volatile gases that can lead to fires. Additionally, using the charger provided by the manufacturer is crucial, as cheap or counterfeit chargers may not have the necessary safety features to prevent overheating or overcharging.

Leaving your vehicle charging unattended for long periods of time should be avoided, as it increases the risk of battery malfunctions and potential fires. Regularly inspecting the battery for signs of damage or overheating is also important, as it allows you to catch any potential issues before they escalate.

If you notice any unusual smells or smoke coming from the battery, it is imperative to immediately disconnect it from the charger and contact the manufacturer. Swift action can help prevent further damage or injuries.

Proper storage and maintenance of the battery are also key to reducing the risk of fires. Following the manufacturer’s instructions regarding storage and maintenance can help ensure the longevity and safety of the battery.

Consider storing your electric vehicle in a safe place, such as a garage or shed, rather than inside your home. This helps contain any potential fires and reduces the risk of spreading to other parts of your property.

By adhering to these precautions, individuals can contribute to the reduction of battery fires and ensure the safety of themselves and those around them.

The incidents of battery fires in New York City, as well as other cities around the world, highlight the need for increased regulation and safety measures surrounding the use and storage of electric bicycles and scooters. Taking steps to address this issue can help prevent further tragedies and ensure the safe adoption of this popular mode of transportation.