Ferocious blaze as e-bike explodes at Sutton railway station
Fire crews were called to an e-bike fire at a railway station have described the "ferocious" blaze that could have had "tragic consequences".
The bike exploded at Sutton train station during rush hour on 21 March.
Station Officer Nigel McLachlan said the owner had bought the e-bike from an online marketplace four months previously, with no apparent issues since.
"This incident only serves to highlight that it is very important to get these products from a reputable high-street seller so you know [their] full history," he said.
"If items are bought from online marketplaces there is more risk it will be sold without the correct battery and charger, which can lead to a devastating fire."
E-bike and e-scooter fires are the fastest-growing fire risk in London: statistics indicate there have been at least 40 this year.
London Fire Brigade has issued safety tips for users:
Never block your escape route with anything - ideally store these items in a safe external location such as a garage or a shed
Always use the correct charger
Never modify or tamper with your battery
Do not attempt to convert your bike yourself
Let the battery cool before charging
Unplug your charger once it's finished charging
Fit alarms where you charge
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