Brixton family have lucky escape after e-bike fire

The London Fire Brigade say a family in Brixton had a lucky escape overnight

The batteries on a converted e-bike exploded at the maisonette on Willington Road destroying the property

A woman and three children got out before the fire crew arrived and were treated for smoke inhalation.

The fire is being treated as accidental and is believed to have been caused by the catastrophic failure of lithium batteries on a converted e-bike that was being charged at the time of the fire.

Lambeth Borough Commander, Jonathan Holt, said: "This appears to have been an extraordinary escape for this family after their home became engulfed in flames in the middle of the night. One of the occupants was alerted to a loud bang and discovered the fire, quickly alerting the others to get out.

"The first firefighters were on scene within three minutes of being alerted and observed thick black smoke billowing from the property. The scale of devastation caused by this fire demonstrates just how ferocious fires involving lithium batteries can be.

"Next Monday (17 March), firefighters and representatives from the local council and other partners will be holding an event in Brixton town centre, where we will be delivering our #ChargeSafe advice to people who use e-bikes and e-scooters."

E-bikes and e-scooters have become one of London's fastest-growing fire risks. In 2023 and 2024, there has been a fire on average every other day.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Prevention & Protection, Richard Field, added: "E-bikes and e-scooters can be a great and sustainable way to travel around our city but they must be used safely otherwise the risk of a fire increases.

"Converting pedal bikes into e-bikes using DIY kits bought online can be very dangerous. Get a professional or competent person to carry out the conversion and make sure to buy a battery from a reputable seller and that it is not second-hand. 

"When charging your e-bike or e-scooter or the batteries for them, make sure you are using the correct charger. Mismatching the charger increases the risk of fire. It's also important not to overcharge and to unplug the charger once it's completed charging.

"Never charge an e-bike or e-scooter unattended or whilst you're sleeping and don't charge it on an escape route, such as in a hallway. Instead, charge or store the device outdoors or in a shed. If this is not possible, make sure the device is in a room where you can shut a door and contain a fire and that you have working smoke detection fitted."

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