Spate of E-Bike Fires in Sydney Raises Safety Concerns

Recently, Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has issued a cautionary alert following a series of incidents involving electric scooters and bikes erupting in flames within the span of 12 hours in various locations across Sydney. This surge in lithium-ion battery fires has raised significant safety concerns, with four separate occurrences reported, bringing the total tally of battery-related fires in the state to 11 since the previous Sunday.

The most recent incident, transpiring around 7:40 am, involved an e-scooter battery explosion at a residence in Sadlier, resulting in injuries to two individuals. Upon receiving a distress call reporting windows shattering and a fire outbreak at a property on Yalta Street, three fire trucks and 12 firefighters promptly responded. The responders discovered that an e-scooter battery had detonated, causing a blaze, and two men sustained injuries—one from flying debris and the other from burns and smoke inhalation. The fire brigade swiftly extinguished the flames and administered immediate medical aid to the injured until NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived on the scene.

Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the root cause of the explosion, with initial suspicions pointing to the use of an incorrect charger to power the scooter, coupled with modifications made by the owner. Additionally, FRNSW teams were dispatched to three other incidents involving micromobility devices, including an e-bike fire in Canley Vale, an e-scooter fire in Parramatta, and an explosion caused by a homemade battery pack for an e-bike in Granville, where one individual was assessed for smoke inhalation.

FRNSW emphasizes the perils associated with altering or fixing e-bikes and e-scooters, highlighting numerous recent mishaps involving individuals attempting to construct or modify their micromobility devices using incompatible components or unauthorized chargers. To avert lithium-ion battery fires, FRNSW advises the public to adopt safe practices in purchasing, charging, and recycling these devices.

Precautionary measures recommended by FRNSW include refraining from charging devices in confined spaces that could impede escape during a fire, installing active smoke alarms, purchasing reputable lithium-ion battery brands, avoiding mixing components, and charging devices away from flammable materials. Furthermore, individuals are advised to exercise caution with cheap, substandard battery-powered gadgets, prevent damage to battery cells, and dispose of compromised batteries through approved recycling centers. Storing batteries and devices in cool, dry areas, maintaining a home evacuation strategy, and seeking guidance from local recycling facilities for proper disposal are also paramount safety guidelines stressed by FRNSW.

In light of these alarming incidents, it is imperative for the public to adhere to safety protocols and exercise vigilance when handling electric bikes and scooters to prevent potential hazards associated with lithium-ion battery fires.