A woman was hospitalized with a “serious injury” after having to leap from a third-floor balcony to evade a suspected e-scooter battery fire in Lewisham, southeast London. The incident, which occurred on April 12, involved a lithium battery catching fire at a flat on Reculver Road, causing significant damage and emitting smoke.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) issued a safety advisory regarding e-bikes and e-scooters following the incident. The battery, which had been charging for 12 hours, experienced a catastrophic failure, leading to the fire. The LFB reported that the woman was trapped in a bedroom due to smoke inhalation, prompting her escape through the balcony. She was rescued by firefighters and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation and injuries sustained during the fall. Another occupant, a man, was safely escorted out by the firefighters.
The LFB attributed the fire to the e-bike battery’s catastrophic failure and cautioned against charging such devices in escape routes. Richard Field, the LFB Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, emphasized the importance of maintaining clear escape routes and avoiding charging e-bikes or e-scooters in hazardous locations.
The LFB recommended purchasing electric vehicle batteries from reputable sources, discouraging online or second-hand purchases due to potential safety risks. They also advised against mismatching chargers, overcharging batteries, or leaving them unattended while charging. E-bikes and scooters have become a growing fire hazard in London, with a notable increase in incidents in recent years.
In conclusion, the LFB urged caution and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent similar incidents, emphasizing the importance of responsible charging practices and battery maintenance.
