Shoreham Firefighters Warn of E-Bike Battery Risks After Local Blaze

Firefighters in Shoreham have issued a safety warning after attending a fire caused by an e-bike battery earlier this month. At around 2.28pm on Monday 12 January, a crew from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (WSFRS) responded to a small fire in the open at Church Green, Shoreham. The blaze was caused by a […]

Firefighters in Shoreham have issued a safety warning after attending a fire caused by an e-bike battery earlier this month.

At around 2.28pm on Monday 12 January, a crew from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (WSFRS) responded to a small fire in the open at Church Green, Shoreham. The blaze was caused by a lithium-ion battery from an e-bike conversion kit which went into thermal runaway, igniting and producing flames.

E-bike conversion kits allow cyclists to add an electric motor to a standard bicycle, but the kits often require a separately purchased battery and charger. Using incompatible components can significantly increase the risk of fire.

Upon arrival, firefighters submerged the battery in water to cool it 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. Electronic devices, batteries, and chargers should only be purchased from reputable retailers to ensure they meet UK product safety standards.”

Station Manager Darren Wickings, Chair of the lithium-ion safety group LIBERATE, added:
“E-bike conversions should only be carried out by a professional. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not attempt to modify or tamper with the battery, charger, or motor yourself. Always use the correct charger, charge batteries on a flat, solid surface, and never leave them unattended or overnight. Make sure smoke alarms are working near where you charge your batteries, and never charge bikes or scooters in areas that could block escape routes in an emergency.”

The LIBERATE group monitors lithium-ion battery risks and shares best practice guidance with 220 members from organisations including fire and rescue services and waste management companies.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fire risks posed by e-bike conversion kits and lithium-ion batteries if not handled safely.