This is the terrifying moment a window was blown out after a ‘modified’ e-bike battery set fire to a house in Failsworth.
The footage, captured by CCTV at a neighbouring home, shows the dangers of charging e-bikes that have not been properly cared for, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), says. The incident took place on November 20 last year, and hospitalised two people.
The blaze began when a ‘modified electric bike battery’ caught fire. Just before 6am on that Sunday, three fire engines from Hollins, Manchester Central, and Philips Park were scrambled to the living room of the terraced house, with firefighters needing two breathing apparatus and one hose reel to extinguish it.
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Now, fire chiefs are pleading with Greater Manchester residents to be careful when buying, storing and charging electric bikes. “This incident shows the devastating effects that a fire involving an electric bike battery can have,” said GMFRS’s Head of Prevention Area Manager, Billy Fenwick.
“Batteries can be a fire risk if they’re over-charged, short circuited, or damaged, so it’s important to protect them against being damaged and to charge them safely. By following our advice on the storage and charging of electric bikes and scooters, Greater Manchester residents can help to keep themselves safe from fire.”
The warning comes following a similar incident in August last year where a fire – that was most likely caused by an electric bike being charged – caused significant damage to a property in Manchester. Firefighters from Withington and Gorton were on scene for five hours as they put out the fire.
Those buying an electric bike or scooter are being told to purchase their vehicle, as well as chargers and batteries, from reputable retailers. And those purchasing an electric bike conversion kit, only go to a reputable seller and check that it complies with British or European standards.
You can find further advice for the safe use of electric bikes and scooters on the GMFRS website.
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