Keep the Fireworks for the 4th of July: E-Bike Fire Prevention Tips

Electric bikes are an amazing way to commute, get around town, and even feel like you’ve got superhero legs. But as fun and efficient as they are, e-bikes come with a hidden risk… fires. If not handled properly, their lithium-ion batteries can go from eco-friendly ride to unintentional flaming mess real quick. Not the kind of “Hot Wheels” you were hoping for. Recently, we had a client whose e-bike exploded and blew up their garage. Turns out, they were using a non-manufacturer charger.

Let’s keep your e-bike in “ride mode,” not “fire hazard mode,” with these essential fire prevention tips:

Buy Smart, Ride Safe:
Only purchase an e-bike that’s certified by a qualified testing organization like UL (Underwriters Laboratory). The same goes for replacement batteries. That off-brand bargain battery may save you money, but rebuilding a garage? Not so budget-friendly.

Charge with Caution:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage. They wrote them for a reason.
• Only use the charger and adapter that came with your e-bike; no third-party knockoffs.
• Never leave your e-bike charging unattended, and definitely don’t charge it overnight.

Warning Signs:
If your battery starts overheating, changing shape, leaking, smelling weird, or making odd noises, stop using it IMMEDIATELY. If it’s acting extra sketchy and you can do so safely, move it away from flammable materials and call 911.

Storage Smarts:

• Keep batteries and devices at room temperature, no direct sunlight, and no extreme heat.
• Store your e-bike away from flammable objects like gas cans, paint cans, or stacks of paper.
• Absolutely do NOT store your e-bike in a child’s room (or any bedroom, really). E-bikes belong in the garage or a safe storage space.

​Don’t Block the Exit:
It’s tempting to park your e-bike near the door for easy grab-and-go access, but don’t let it block your way out. You don't want to be playing obstacle course with a 70-pound bike in the way if a fire breaks out.

If the Battery Catches Fire… RUN!
If your battery goes up in flames, get out of the building and call 911. Lithium-ion battery fires spread fast, and your fire extinguisher likely won’t cut it.

Dispose Responsibly:
Used batteries and chargers don’t belong in the trash. Take them to a designated battery recycling center. Tossing them in the garbage is a surefire way to turn a landfill into a fireworks display.

SPREAD THE WORD!
Know someone with an e-bike or any lithium-ion device? Share these safety tips with them. The more people know how to charge, care for, and dispose of these batteries properly, the fewer accidental infernos we’ll have.

E-bikes are awesome, but fire hazards aren’t. Follow these tips, and your bike will stay where it belongs, on the road, not on fire. Stay safe and charge smart!