Mass. fire officials issue alert after e-bike blazes

Fire officials are alerting electric bike users about the fire hazards associated with e-bike batteries after two incidents occurred in consecutive days. A fire in Falmouth was caused by a failing lithium-ion battery, while another incident in Holyoke involved a battery that caught fire when it was placed in a kitchen sink. E-bikes have been linked to over 20% of fire incidents reported in 2023. Safety recommendations include storing e-bikes outside and avoiding charging on carpets or beds.

""The lithium-ion batteries in these devices can fail rapidly and violently if they're damaged, defective, or recalled," State Fire Marshal Davine said."

""E-bikes and other micromobility devices have accounted for more than 20% of the incidents reported through an investigative checklist in use by the State Fire Marshal's office and many local fire departments since 2023," officials wrote."

""Fire officials advise those using e-bike batteries to store e-bikes or electric scooters outside. If one does store them inside, keep them away from doors, stairways, and windows," officials said."

Read at Boston.com