Pets rescued from fire caused by e-bike charger
Five pets have been rescued from a house fire in Southend.
Firefighters were called to the terrace house in Lundy Close, Eastwood, Southend, after the homeowner discovered their e-bike was on fire in an area under the stairs.
On arrival firefighters reported the fire was well developed on the ground floor and beginning to spread upstairs.
Watch Manager Richard Blakebrough Leigh Fire Station, said:
"Our firefighters did a fantastic job of containing the fire and stopping it spreading any further.
"The fire was caused by the electric bike, which was charging and only a few weeks old.
"Although we don't believe the bike set alight due to mishandling, it's a good reminder to others when charging e-bikes and e-scooters that you do so safely to avoid a risk of a fire starting and putting your family and home at risk.
"Most importantly, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging and always unplug your charger when it’s finished charging.
"Make sure you're home while you're charging, so if a fire does start you'll be alerted to it quickly."
Firefighters extinguished the fire by 12.40pm and rescued two dogs, two tortoises and a cat.
The whole of the house has been badly damaged by fire, heat and smoke.
Charging safely
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging and always unplug your charger when it’s finished charging.
- Ensure you have working smoke alarms. If you charge or store your e-bike or e-scooter in a garage or kitchen ensure you install detection, we recommend heat alarms rather smoke detectors for these areas.
- Charge batteries whilst you are awake and alert so if a fire should occur you can respond quickly. Don’t leave batteries to charge while you are asleep or away from the home.
- Always use the manufacturer approved charger for the product, and if you spot any signs of wear and tear or damage buy an official replacement charger for your product from a reputable seller.
- Do not cover chargers or battery packs when charging as this could lead to overheating or even a fire.
- Do not charge batteries or store your e-bike or e-scooter near combustible or flammable materials.
- Do not overcharge your battery – check the manufacturer’s instructions for charge times.
- Do not overload socket outlets or use inappropriate extension leads (use un-coiled extensions and ensure the lead is suitably rated for what you are plugging in to it).
- In the event of an e-bike, e-scooter or lithium-ion battery fire – do not attempt to extinguish the fire. Get out, stay out, call 999.