E-bike owners have been urged to take extra care whilst storing and charging their bikes.

Many in Dorset will have received an e-bike for Christmas, but emergency services are warning new owners to take care to prevent fires.

A fire service spokesperson said: "Did you receive an e-bike for Christmas? We hope you have plenty of fun using it - but please store and charge it carefully, especially if you're keeping it inside the home.

"These vehicles have become London's fastest-growing fire risk and some of the reasons they're catching fire are they're not being charged correctly, the battery pack has been modified, or because the vehicle hasn't been purchased from a reputable seller."

Firefighters have issued the following safety tips:  

  • Use the correct charger for the vehicle, don't overcharge it and don't charge it while you're away or sleeping.
  •  Don't modify or tamper with the batteries.
  • Don't store or charge the e-bike or e-scooter on an escape route - instead keep it in a room where you can shut a door and contain a fire.