Interactive exhibit in Bristol teaches children life-saving fire safety skills
The exhibit addresses a rise in gadget-related fire risks
A new 'house of hazards' is open in Bristol to raise awareness about the rising fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries found in gadgets like e-bikes and e-scooters.
Figures obtained by Electrical Safety First show a dramatic increase in fires across Avon, with domestic incidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters jumping from one in 2020 to fourteen in 2025.
The exhibit, developed by Lifeskills and backed by Electrical Safety First, features mock rooms showcasing various electrical hazards, including an e-scooter igniting and the aftermath of a mobile phone fire.
The initiative emphasises the need for understanding emerging fire risks, especially as gadgets become more prevalent in homes.
“Modern gadgets have transformed the types of fire risks we face in our homes," said Lesley Rudd, chief executive of Electrical Safety First, "making our partnership with Lifeskills both timely and vital.
"As lithium-ion battery-powered products become increasingly common in our homes, and the threat of unsafe electrical goods sold continues, education has never been more important.”
The immersive exhibit, created by Lifeskills, features scenarios such as a mock bedroom blaze ignited by a phone charging on a bed, aimed to educate young people about these dangers.
Attendees can explore the Lifeskills village, which simulates realistic environments such as roads, shops, and railway platforms to further promote safety education.
Sam Jury, partnership and development manager at Lifeskills said:
“We’re delighted to be working with Electrical Safety First on such an important and relevant area of safety education.
"By combining their expertise with Lifeskills’ immersive and experiential approach to learning, we are able to bring updated electrical safety messaging and emerging risks to life.”
The initiative coincides with over 260 accidental electrical fires reported in Avon during 2024/25, underscoring the importance of improved safety practices as the region sees about five fires every week.
The event seeks to foster safer choices in purchasing electrical goods and equips young people with knowledge to ensure domestic safety.