Rechargeable Batteries

1. Always use a charger supplied with the device or recommended by the manufacturer.

2. Charge the device on a flat, solid and stable surface.

3. Only charge the device for the recommended charging time and don’t leave unattended – e.g. overnight while you’re asleep, or if you go out.

4. Keep the device away from flammable materials when charging.

5. Never charge lithium batteries on your escape route. If possible, charge and store them away from your living areas.

6. Avoid storing, using, or charging batteries at very high or low temperatures.

7. If the device has not been used for quite some time, be extra careful when you charge it – lithium batteries don’t like being discharged to a very low voltage.

8. Protect batteries against being damaged – that’s crushed, punctured, or immersed in water. Do not use if it looks physically damaged.

How to stay safe

• Always read the safety instructions that came with your device.

• Ensure you have working smoke alarms.

• Always use the charger that came with your device.

• If you need to buy a replacement battery or charger, always choose a branded, genuine product from the manufacturer. There are lots of fakes out there, and it can be difficult to spot the difference.

• Charge the device on a flat, solid, and stable surface.

• Never charge lithium batteries when you are sleeping, or if you are leaving the home.

• Never charge lithium batteries on your escape route. If possible, charge and store them away from your living areas.

• If the device has not been used for quite some time, be extra careful when you charge it – lithium batteries don’t like being discharged to a very low voltage.

• Don’t leave items continuously on charge after the charge cycle is complete – it’s best not to leave your phone plugged in overnight for example.

• Never cover chargers or charging devices – that includes using your laptop power lead in bed.

• Protect batteries against being damaged – that’s crushed, punctured, or immersed in water. Do not use if it looks physically damaged.

• Avoid storing, using, or charging batteries at very high or low temperatures.

• When you travel, avoid keeping all your items containing lithium-ion batteries together, especially on a plane. Check with your flight carrier for additional information or advice.

E-scooters and e-bikes

Whether you’re cruising around on an e-scooter or e-bike, it’s no secret that it’s an easy, fuss-free way to get from A to B. While we know they are increasingly popular, it is important that when charging e-bikes and e-scooters, you do so safely to avoid a risk of a fire in your home.

• Buy e-scooters, e-bikes, chargers and batteries from reputable retailers.

• Many fires involve counterfeit electrical goods. Items which don’t meet British or European standards pose a huge fire risk and while genuine chargers (or battery packs) may cost more, it’s not worth putting your life at risk and potentially destroying your home by buying a fake charger.

• If buying an e-bike conversion kit, purchase from a reputable seller and check that it complies with British or European standards. Take particular care if buying from online auction or fulfilment platforms. Also be aware that if buying separate components, you should check that they are compatible.

• Register your product with the manufacturer to validate any warranties – batteries are usually included in warranties. Registering makes it easier for manufacturers to contact you in the event of safety or recall information.

• Check any products you have bought are not subject to a product recall. You can do this buy checking Electrical Safety First’s website or the government website.

Enjoy and ride your e-bike or e-scooter safely and ensure you are using these products within the law. Further information can be found here https://www.gov.uk/electric-bike-rules and here for e-scooters.