E-BIKES pose a severe fire hazard – not the bikes themselves, but the batteries they use have a habit of bursting into flames when recharging or when heated in rubbish collections.
There were three major fires in recycling centres in London this summer, and they may have been caused by lithium batteries in the recycling. Lithium batteries are one of London’s fastest growing fire risks. There were 129 fires caused by e-bikes and e-scooters between January and August 2026.
Three years ago, the London Fire Brigade began a campaign, in conjunction with Deliveroo, to educate e-bike riders in how to charge and dispose of batteries safely. This year there were seven training events across London, including in Shoreditch. The Brigade believes that over 3,500 riders attended at least one event.
An e-bike is a favoured form of travel for Deliveroo riders. It is quick, easy, inexpensive – and sustainable. As well as Deliveroo and the London Fire Brigade, representatives from Councils and Electrical Safety First attended – all pushing the safety message.
●For Fire Safety Advice on e-bikes, go to: Fire Safety Advice
●Read more about it: London Fire Brigade: one of the busiest summers ever Another recycling centre fire – this one in Leyton