Posted May 27, 2025

Surge in Battery Related Fires Triggers UK Safety Alert

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued a renewed warning following a rise in fires linked to charging lithium-ion battery-powered devices such as e-bikes, e-scooters, and power tools. So far this year, six fires in Cambridgeshire have been caused by faulty or unsafe charging of battery-powered devices. Affected items include e-scooters, e-bikes, power tools, a gaming console, and a portable power bank.

The most recent incident occurred in Wisbech, where a fire broke out after a DIY e-bike battery, purchased as a conversion kit, exploded while charging. The blaze caused extensive damage, and one resident sustained burn injuries. “These incidents highlight the serious risks lithium-ion batteries can pose,” said Station Commander Gareth Boyd. “It’s vital that people only use chargers and batteries supplied or approved by the manufacturer. Cheaper, unregulated alternatives can lead to explosions and rapidly spreading fires.”

Recent Incidents in the County Include:

  • A fire in Chesterton, Cambridge, after an e-scooter and power tools were left charging unattended.
  • A fire in Soham caused by a charging games controller and power bank.
  • Another e-bike fire in Peterborough involving a DIY battery kit bought online.

Since January 2023, Cambridgeshire crews have responded to 33 battery-related fires, a concerning trend driven in part by the rise in demand for personal electric transport and power tools. Safety Advice from Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service:

  • Consider a professional fire risk assessment for your business or organisation
  • Only use batteries and chargers that match the correct voltage and are compatible with the device
  • Avoid charging devices overnight or when no one is home
  • Always follow manufacturer instructions for safe charging and storage

Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Surge Across the UK
In 2023, the UK experienced a 46% rise in lithium-ion battery fires, with fire services responding to 921 incidents, up from 633 in 2022. This growing hazard is having a significant financial and safety impact, costing the UK economy over £158 million annually. Key 2023 Statistics:

  • Total lithium-ion battery fires: 921
  • Year-on-year increase: 46%
  • Fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters: Nearly one-third of all incidents
  • Economic cost: Over £158 million per year
  • Waste fires caused by lithium batteries: 48%

The London Fire Brigade reported the highest number of battery-related fires in the country, responding to 467 incidents in 2024, more than double the number reported in 2023. Other major contributors included:

  • Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service: 70 incidents
  • Avon Fire and Rescue Service: 57 incidents

Broader Impact and Trends:
Since 2020, 10 people have died and 190 have been injured in lithium-ion battery fires across the UK (source: Ideal Response). Electric vehicle fires also rose significantly, with a 33% increase in incidents involving electric cars (from 89 in 2022 to 118 in 2023), according to the International Fire & Safety Journal. The UK also recorded more fires involving electric buses and trucks than any other country in Europe. Over 1,200 battery fires were reported in waste management systems in the past year alone, according to the National Fire Chiefs Council.

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