How can I safely use chargers for electrical equipment and devices?

You may have a variety of electrical equipment or devices in your home that require charging, from e-scooters and hoverboards to mobile phones and tablets.

Many of these devices or equipment are commonly fitted with lithium-ion batteries where there have been several cases of batteries causing a fire. Spontaneous fires on a tube train and depot have led to Transport for London banning e-scooters and e-unicycles from their trains.

The fire service also has growing concerns about fires involving e-scooters and e-bikes powered by lithium batteries.

Possible causes for fire may have been damaged batteries, using wrong non-compatible chargers and batteries overheating.

Here are some safety tips to consider when charging your electrical device or equipment:

· Always use the charger that comes with your electrical item - don’t mix and match

· Batteries can get warm during use - allow them to cool down before attempting to re-charge as they could be more susceptible to failure

· Batteries should always be charged on hard flat surfaces where heat can disperse

· If you need to buy a replacement charger or battery, choose a branded, genuine product from a supplier you can trust. Don’t rely on a cheap aftersales alternative

· Batteries can also pose a risk if they have been damaged. Make sure they aren’t getting knocked around while in use or being carried as spares, as this can increase the chance of damage to cells

· You should always make sure you unplug your charger once it’s finished charging. Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when charging

· Never charge e-scooters, e-bikes or hoverboards on your exit route or in communal areas, which could affect your and your neighbour’s escape

· Make sure you have a working smoke alarm in your home and test it regularly.

You can read more about fire safety on our website or the London Fire Brigade website.