Experts have warned that choosing the wrong electric bike or scooter this Christmas could be a fatal mistake, as there is a rise in the number of house fires caused by faulty batteries. Australian authorities have issued a warning that lithium-ion battery fires are occurring every week, and the problem could worsen due to poorly constructed Christmas purchases. They suggest that purchasing reputable, well-made portable mobility devices and using them with care could prevent such dangers.
The concern comes in the wake of four e-scooter fires in Perth last week, prompting the consumer watchdog to find that reports of battery fires had increased sixfold between 2021 and 2023, calling for industry changes. Emma Sutcliffe, chief executive of EV FireSafe, noted that the popularity of battery-powered bicycles and scooters had contributed to the problem as manufacturers created cheaper, poorly-made products to meet demand.
Ms. Sutcliffe revealed that fire crews across Australia were attending lithium-ion battery fires at least every fortnight. She warned of the potential for a fatality from such fires in the aftermath of Christmas. She recommended consumers to only purchase e-bikes from local stores, look out for signs of battery damage, and evacuate the area immediately if they hear popping noises.
New South Wales (NSW) Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib urged shoppers not to “cut corners” when choosing products and advised against disassembling batteries themselves. Fire and Rescue NSW superintendent Adam Dewberry emphasized the importance of choosing reputable brands of lithium-ion batteries and not trying to make or reconfigure existing batteries. Other precautions included preventing overcharging and ensuring batteries are recharged with the correct cable and in a space clear of flammable items, as well as disposing of damaged batteries properly. Finally, anyone with concerns about a lithium-ion battery was advised to contact their local council or fire service for disposal advice and to avoid placing it in a standard battery recycling bin.