The emergency services were alerted after an electric bike burst into flames in Buckinghamshire.

Firefighters were called after reports of a fire on Wooburn Manor Park in Wooburn Green on Wednesday September 6 at about 11pm.

Smoke was pouring out of the garage attached to a house when two fire crews arrived. 

Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “The fire was believed to have been caused by an electric bike which had been on charge in the garage.”

Although the fire was contained within the garage, smoke affected the house.

What not to do with e-scooters and bikes

Most electric bikes and scooters are powered by lithium-ion batteries.

The fire service told owners of e-bikes to ensure they have working smoke alarms, install detection if charging or storing them in a garage or kitchen and to not overload socket outlets or use inappropriate extension leads.

Here is what not to do according to fire experts. 

  • Avoid storing or charging e-bikes and e-scooters on escape routes or hallways.
  • Avoid storing them in excessively hot or cold areas.
  • 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 dispose of lithium batteries in your household waste or normal recycling. When punctured or crushed they can cause fires in bin lorries, recycling and waste centres.