Battery safety warning for e-bike and e-scooter users

Residents are being urged to take care when buying e-bike or e-scooter batteries online, as poor-quality or modified batteries can pose a serious fire risk.

Residents are also reminded that rental e-scooters are the only way to legally ride an e-scooter on public roads or in other public places within the borough. It is illegal to use privately-owned e-scooters or other powered transporters on public roads.

If you are buying a battery, watch out for:

• Prices that are significantly lower than elsewhere
• No manufacturer name provided
• Sellers unable to provide safety certifications
• Spelling mistakes on packaging or adverts
• Claims of dramatically increased range or power
• DIY conversion or battery upgrade kits from unknown suppliers

If a battery is not supplied or approved by the manufacturer, don't buy it. The saving is rarely worth the potential fire risk.

Dispose of batteries safely

Batteries should never be placed in household rubbish or recycling bins as they can cause fires in bin lorries and at waste and recycling facilities.

Manufacturers and importers must offer a free take-back service for batteries. Residents should contact the manufacturer or retailer for details.

If this is not possible, batteries can be taken to participating Halfords stores for recycling.

Using approved batteries and disposing of them correctly can help prevent avoidable fires and keep residents, crews and recycling staff safe.