Electric scooters (known as e-scooters) have become incredibly popular across Australia, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around. However, since their introduction, there have also been concerns over the risk of their lithium-ion batteries overheating and causing fast, intense fires that emit toxic fumes and are hard to put out.
In 2023, Fire and Rescue NSW reported 61 incidents of e-scooter fires in the state – nearly triple the number reported in 2022. As such, it is vital for anyone with e-scooters to have the right heat and smoke alarms in their homes and garages to protect people and property alike if the worst should happen.
Understanding Fire Risks from E-Scooters
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in e-scooters because they are lightweight yet have a high energy capacity. However, if they are overcharged, overheated, damaged, or not properly maintained, they have a chance to fail. This can lead to one or more of the battery cells bursting (a situation known as ‘thermal runaway’) and causing fires or even explosions.
Having heat and smoke alarms near e-scooters and other vehicles with lithium-ion batteries gives you early warning if a fire happens, which can be crucial as you have more time to evacuate, call for help, and try to put out the fire (if it’s safe). If you aren’t sure how these alarms differ, you can read more about what each alarm does here.
Heat and Smoke Alarm Placements
Heat Alarms for Garages
Garages, where e-scooters are often charged, are high-risk areas for lithium-ion battery fires. Traditional smoke alarms might not be the best fit here as they can be triggered by non-fire sources, making them less effective as a warning system. Instead, consider heat alarms such as the PSA Lifesaver LIFHA240.
Heat alarms work by sensing a rapid rise in temperature or when the temperature hits a certain threshold, signalling that there’s a fire. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) in Western Australia strongly recommends installing heat alarms in areas where e-scooters are charged.
Install a heat alarm on the ceiling or high on the wall, near where your e-scooter is typically charged. Make sure the alarm is at least a few feet away from vents or windows to avoid false readings.
Smoke Alarms for Homes
Heat alarms may have your garage covered, but what about your home? If we assume that the fire may start in the garage, then you should have smoke alarms in the rest of your home instead for a more effective system.
Fires caused by e-scooter battery failures can release toxic fumes and smoke that spread faster than the flames themselves do. Photoelectric smoke alarms, like the PSA Lifesaver LIF6800, are designed to detect smoke from fires in their early stages of burning, giving you precious time to escape safely.
These smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, including the basement. Place them inside each bedroom and outside sleeping areas.
Interconnected Alarms
For added safety, consider interconnected alarms throughout your property. This way, when one alarm goes off, they all do, making sure everyone in the house is alerted no matter where they are.
Additional Safety Precautions
Aside from installing alarms, there are other steps you can take to reduce the risk of e-scooter fires and increase your home safety
- Regular Alarm Maintenance: Test your heat and smoke alarms monthly to ensure they are working properly. Replace batteries at least once a year or use alarms with long-life batteries. Replace the entire alarm unit every 10 years.
- Regular Battery Inspections: Check the e-scooter battery and charging equipment regularly for any signs of damage or wear. If something doesn’t look right, stop using the e-scooter and get it checked out by a professional.
- Proper Charging: Always use the charger that comes with your e-scooter. Don’t overcharge it and avoid leaving it plugged in when you’re away.
- Safe Storage: Store your e-scooter in a cool, dry place, away from anything flammable. If possible, charge it on a non-flammable surface like concrete or steel.
- Emergency Preparedness: Keep a fire extinguisher handy in the garage, and make sure everyone in your household knows how to use it. It’s also a good idea to have an evacuation plan in place in case a fire does break out.
Protect Your Home with PSA Products
With e-scooter battery fire incidents on the rise, it’s more important than ever to make sure your home is ready for any emergency. Installing heat alarms in your garage and smoke alarms throughout your home is a crucial step in protecting your property and loved ones. By staying proactive and informed, you can enjoy the convenience of e-scooters without compromising on safety.
To ensure your home is fully protected, consider PSA Products for all your fire safety needs. We offer a wide range of high-quality PSA Lifesaver smoke alarms, heat alarms, and other fire safety devices designed to keep you and your family safe. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current system or install new alarms, PSA Products has the solutions you need to secure your home against potential fire hazards.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact us today to explore our range of fire safety products and find the right solutions for your home. Your safety is our top priority.
