London Fire Brigade has issued an urgent warning to Londoners after two homes were destroyed by e-bike and e-scooter fires in less than 24 hours.
No one was injured in either of the fires, but two people were taken to hospital for treatment and two family dogs were sadly killed.
The first fire happened at around 10.30am on Monday, when the battery on a charging e-scooter burst into flames at a house on Barlow Road in West Hampstead.
The fire quickly spread across the ground floor and up the stairs and eight fire engines with approximately 60 firefighters were dispatched to put out the blaze.
Just 16 hours later, the battery pack on a second-hand converted e-bike at a house on Bridlepath Way in Feltham caught alight.
Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were dispatched to the scene, but by the time they arrived, the fire had already spread across most of the property.
Four people managed to escape the house before firefighters arrived, with one leaving through a window. Two of the occupants were taken to the hospital for treatment.
Both fires are believed to have been caused by lithium batteries which when damaged, faulty, or modified, can have catastrophic consequences.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Richard Field, said: “It cannot be underestimated the level of destruction each of these fires have caused with both homes completely damaged by fire and smoke.
“It’s extremely fortunate that no people have been seriously hurt but a dog was sadly found dead at the scene of each fire.
“Both of these fires were caused by catastrophic battery failures. When these batteries fail, they can cause ferocious fires, and the consequences can be devastating. We urge people who own these devices to follow the safety advice that will help to protect those around them and their properties."
Fire officials say e-bikes and e-scooters are becoming one of the capital’s fastest-growing fire risks, with 171 incidents reported last year — one every other day on average.
Three people have died in fires caused by e-bike battery failures in London since 2023 and more than 100 people have been hurt.
“E-bikes and e-scooters are a green and sustainable way to travel around our city,” Field added.
“However, they can pose a significant fire risk, if not properly cared for, this is particularly true for the batteries used to power them which have become one of London's fastest-growing fire risks.
“From our investigations, we know many of the fires we’ve attended have involved second-hand vehicles or a bike that was been modified using parts bought online.
“At this time, there is not the same level of regulation of products for e-bikes and e-scooters sold via online marketplaces or auction sites when compared to high street shops, so we can’t be confident that products meet the correct safety standard.
“We understand that people are trying to save money, but if you spot a deal that looks too be good to be true, it probably is.”
E-bike and e-scooter owners have been advised to avoid leaving their devices unattended while charging.
It's recommended to store them in a room where doors can be closed to contain any fire, and never leave them in fire escape routes like hallways.
