Public concern over lithium battery fires
The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has reported that more than half of e-bike and e-scooter owners are increasingly worried about the fire risks linked to lithium-ion batteries.
The organisation said the findings come from a survey conducted for Fire Door Safety Week, which runs from 22 to 26 September 2025 under the theme ‘Fire Travels Fast’.
According to the BWF, 59% of device owners said their concerns about battery fires had increased since purchase.
It added that only 41% of people surveyed were confident the fire doors in their building would contain such a fire.
The group explained that device-related fires are seen as more likely to trigger an immediate evacuation than other types of fire.
Rising number of incidents
The BWF said the survey reflects wider national data showing a 93% increase in lithium-ion battery fires between 2022 and 2024.
The organisation reported that e-bikes and e-scooters were frequently cited as leading causes of these incidents.
According to QBE Insurance Group, one in ten people have either experienced or know someone who has experienced a lithium-ion battery fire.
The BWF added that ownership of e-bikes and e-scooters remains relatively low, at 8% and 6% respectively, but incidents are still climbing.
It stated that 63% of owners had experienced charging problems, with many still charging indoors despite safety concerns.
Fire door condition and maintenance
The BWF survey found that 35% of respondents reported problems with fire doors in their buildings.
It reported that issues included doors being propped open, blocked, or having excessive gaps.
The federation said 7% of respondents highlighted faulty door closers or hinges.
It added that 6% said fire doors were locked.
The BWF explained that only 29% of respondents had reported faulty fire doors, showing limited action despite high levels of concern.
BWF commentary on fire doors
Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation, said: “With e-bikes and e-scooters increasingly stored in homes and communal areas, correctly functioning fire doors can mean the difference between life and death. Fire doors are one of the most effective measures we have to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. They give people the precious time they need to evacuate safely – time that is even more critical when dealing with the intense heat and speed of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.”
Helen Hewitt added: “We all have a role to play in spotting and reporting problems with fire doors and taking immediate action to protect lives and property. Fire Door Safety Week is an essential reminder that correctly installed, well-maintained fire doors save lives – but only if we all take responsibility for ensuring they can do their job.”
London Fire Brigade advice
London Fire Brigade Deputy Assistant Commissioner Richard Field said: “E-bikes and e-scooters are one of London’s fastest-growing fire risks. Since the beginning of 2023, there has been a fire, on average, every other day involving an e-bike or e-scooter.
“We’re urging people never to store or charge e-bikes or e-scooters in hallways, stairwells or escape routes. If possible, keep them outdoors in a garage or shed. If you must keep one indoors, always place it in a room away from your main exit, so that if a fire does break out, you can close the door and get everyone to safety.
“Fire doors are a vital line of defence. When properly maintained and kept closed, they hold back flames and toxic smoke, giving you and your family valuable extra minutes to escape while firefighters respond.
“Never attempt to repair or alter a fire door yourself, as this can compromise its effectiveness. If you suspect a fault, always report it to the building owner immediately. Fires can develop rapidly, so it’s essential that every home has working smoke alarms to provide early warning and help save lives.”
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The BWF’s survey results link public perception of battery-related fire risks directly with the condition and maintenance of fire doors.
For fire safety professionals, this highlights the role of fire door inspection and reporting in residential and communal buildings where e-bikes and e-scooters are stored.
It also shows the importance of public awareness campaigns that explain how fire doors function and why maintenance is necessary.
The findings further underline the need for coordination between manufacturers, landlords and enforcement bodies to address fire door compliance alongside the growing lithium-ion battery risk.
Fire door safety concerns rise amid lithium battery fire risk: Summary
The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has reported increased public concern about lithium-ion battery fire risks.
The organisation said its survey was conducted for Fire Door Safety Week, running 22 to 26 September 2025.
According to the BWF, 59% of e-bike and e-scooter owners said their fears of fire risk had increased since purchase.
It reported that only 41% of respondents believed their fire doors could contain such a fire.
QBE Insurance Group data showed lithium-ion battery fires increased 93% between 2022 and 2024.
The BWF survey found 35% of people noticed fire door issues in their buildings.
The organisation said 29% had reported faulty doors, despite widespread concern.
Helen Hewitt of the BWF said working fire doors were essential to life safety.
London Fire Brigade’s Richard Field said e-bike and e-scooter fires occur almost every other day in London.
He advised against charging or storing devices in escape routes.
He added that fire doors and smoke alarms remain critical protective measures.