Fast-thinking firefighters have warned owners of e-bikes and e-scooters their homes could be destroyed after responding to a devastating kitchen fire.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) have urged owners of e-scooters and e-bikes to take extra safety measures after the blaze in South Shields.

In the early hours of Saturday, September 23^rd, their Fire Control received a call about a kitchen fire in the town.

Crews were on scene in a matter of minutes and immediately began to tackle to fire after the occupants had already fled their home.

They extinguished the fire and found the likely cause to be a lithium ion battery pack on a child’s e-bike that had been in the kitchen.

The fire caused serious damage to the property and now the head of Community Safety at TWFRS has urged owners of e-bikes and e-scooters to take action.

Area Manager Paul Russell said: “Sadly there was significant damage to the kitchen and it quickly became evident the likely cause was the battery on an electric bike.

“If not looked after carefully, lithium ion batteries, like the one on this bike, can be very volatile and can lead to quick-spreading fires.

“It is really important that you don’t overcharge them, only use merchandise from reputable traders and don’t charge them while you’re asleep.

“Also make sure you don’t keep them in ways of exit routes so, in the event of the fire, you can escape safely.

“This was a great job by our firefighters, and we are glad the family are safe, but it is an important reminder for all those who own electric bikes or scooters.”

For more information around e-bike and e-scooter safety please check out the Fire England campaign here: https://fireengland.uk/fire-safety/charging-your-e-bike-or-e-scooter