E-bikes blamed as UK fire brigades see 147% rise in lithium-ion battery fires in three years
Record number of fires linked to e-bikes and scooters leave fire fighters 'extremely concerned', and calling for tighter regulation
www.independent.co.ukHere’s what I can share right now about UK lithium-ion battery fire statistics.
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The UK has seen a notable rise in lithium-ion battery-related fires in recent years, driven largely by incidents involving e-bikes, e-scooters, and related charging setups. Several industry briefs and safety reports highlight increases in annual fire counts linked to lithium-ion batteries and call for stronger safety measures and training for responders.[4][5][7]
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For context, London and other major fire services have reported higher counts of lithium-ion battery fires than other regions, with London often recording the largest numbers among fire authorities. These figures come from Freedom of Information requests compiled by insurers and safety researchers.[1][5]
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In 2025, reports circulating in regional outlets and safety summaries indicate a continued upward trend, with some sources noting hundreds of additional battery-fire incidents across the UK during that year. This aligns with ongoing concerns about charging practices, battery storage, and the rapid adoption of electric mobility devices.[3][5]
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Public safety responses emphasize the unique risks of lithium-ion fires, including different combustion behavior and the need for specialized extinguishing approaches and training for firefighting personnel. Several health and safety outlets advocate for tighter regulation, improved education, and safer disposal and storage practices.[7][4]
If you’d like, I can compile a concise, up-to-date summary with key numbers (fires per year, top regions, and notable trends) from the latest public sources and provide direct citations. I can also look for the most recent official UK fire service statistics or a reputable insurer summary if you want precise figures.