A woman sustained severe injuries after jumping from a third-floor balcony to escape a fire caused by a lithium battery explosion in Lewisham, southeast London. The incident, which occurred on April 12, involved an e-bike that caught fire while charging for 12 hours, leading to smoke and damage in the flat.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) issued a safety warning regarding e-bikes and e-scooters following the incident. The woman, trapped in a bedroom by smoke, was assisted by firefighters and later hospitalized for smoke inhalation and injuries from the fall. Another occupant was safely evacuated by the fire service.
The LFB attributed the fire to a catastrophic battery failure of the e-bike being charged inside the flat. Richard Field, LFB’s Deputy Assistant Commissioner, emphasized the importance of clear escape routes and advised against charging such devices in high-risk areas. He also urged caution in purchasing electric vehicle batteries from reputable sources to prevent potential fire hazards.
E-bikes and scooters pose increasing fire risks in London, with a significant rise in incidents reported in recent years. The LFB recommends following safety guidelines, including proper battery handling and charging practices, to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.