News / Transport
Avon Fire & Rescue team up with Deliveroo amid fire concern
Avon Fire & Rescue Service are teaming up with food-delivery service Deliveroo, to promote safer battery charging for e-bikes and e-scooters.
In response to a rising number of fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters, with a reported 57 fires linked lithium-ion batteries this year alone, they are approaching this issue by educating riders on safe battery charging practices.
On September 17, Deliveroo riders gathered in Bristol city centre for a Rider Roadshow. During the event, firefighters spoke to riders about the potential dangers of e-vehicle fires, showing just how rapidly they can spread and the intensity of these incidents.
On 17 September we teamed up with @Deliveroo to share e-bike and e-scooter safety tips! 🔥🚲
Some include: Using the right charger and don’t charge unattended! 🚒You can read the whole story here: https://t.co/oI462cHA6q pic.twitter.com/6QaYzsaK0M
— Avon Fire & Rescue Service (@AvonFireRescue) October 10, 2024
Manager Jon Westwood, who organised the event, emphasised the importance of raising awareness and following safety advice, he said: “Our priority is the safety of everyone using e-bikes and e-scooters.
“Whether you’re a Deliveroo rider or a local resident, it’s vital to understand the risks and take the necessary precautions to prevent fires. By following our simple safety advice, we can significantly reduce the risk of battery fires to keep all of us safer.”
There has been concern specifically relating to the DIY electric bike/scooter kits sold online, that don’t meet product standards. These kits can be purchased and used to turn any push bike into a motorised vehicle.
Most recently, it was reported that Bristol’s new e-scooter rental operator Dott recalled long-term rental vehicles due to similar fears of them being stored inside homes. The council has also banned people from e-bikes and e-scooters into government buildings.
There are “emerging fire risks associated with e-bikes and e-scooters” according to a government paper – photo: Martin Booth
Paul Bedford, director of Policy and Sustainability at Deliveroo said: “At Deliveroo, the safety of our riders is a top priority and we’re proud to partner with the Avon Fire & Rescue Service.
“We support riders who want to use sustainable vehicles whilst riding with us, but it’s so important those who sell this equipment ensure it meets the highest safety standards.
“Our Rider Roadshows provide a fantastic platform to engage with riders directly on how they can use their e-bikes safely and responsibly. Together, we can reduce the risk of fires and promote a safer environment for all e-bike users in the area.”
Avon Fire & Rescue have recommend a number of best practices to follow, including: buying your e-bike or e-scooter from a reputable seller, never block escape routes with an e-bike or e-scooter and only use the correct charger for your battery.
More recommendations can be found on their website avonfire.gov.uk.
Main photo: Avon & Somerset Fire Service
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