Follow the rules for safe summer fun
The popularity of electric bikes and electric scooters (e-bikes and e-scooters) has taken off over the past few years. Lithium-ion batteries are usually the source of power for both, and if not used correctly or if damaged, those batteries can catch on fire or explode. Whether you use e-bikes or e-scooters as your main way of getting around, or just for fun, there are important safety tips to keep in mind when charging or storing these devices.
The Problem
• Damaged or defective batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode.
• Lithium-ion battery fires give off toxic gases and they burn extremely hot.
Safety Tips
• Only purchase and use devices, batteries and charging equipment that are listed by a nationally recognized testing lab and labeled accordingly.
• Always follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
• Only use the battery and the charger that were designed for, and came with, the device.
• Do not keep charging the battery after it is fully charged.
• Only charge one device or device battery at a time to prevent overloading the circuit.
• Keep bike or scooter batteries at room temperature whenever possible. Do not charge at temperatures below 32 degrees or above 105 degrees.
• Do not store batteries in direct sunlight or inside hot vehicles. Keep batteries away from children and liquids.
• Store e-bikes, e-scooters and batteries away from exit doors and anything that can get hot or catch fire.
• Only have devices repaired by a qualified professional.
• Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is always the best option. Take the batteries to a battery recycling location.
Signs of a Problem
Stop using the e-bike or e-scooter if you notice any of these problems with the battery:
• Unusual odor
• Change in color
• Too much heat
• Change in battery shape, leaking, smoking or not keeping a charge
— National Fire Prevention Association