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Alexandria officials urge e-bike, e-scooter battery safety

City and AFD share charging, storage and warning-sign guidance as the lithium-ion-powered devices grow more common

,   and  Ryan Belmore
3 min read
E-bike, e-scooter battery fires prompt safety push in Alexandria (Alexandria Fire Department)

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ALEXANDRIA, Va — As electric bikes and scooters become a more common sight on Alexandria streets, the city and its Fire Department are reminding residents that the lithium-ion batteries powering them carry real fire risks if mishandled.

In a post shared this week on Facebook, the Alexandria Fire Department echoed the city's safety message and pointed residents to guidance from the National Fire Protection Association, noting that damaged or improperly used batteries "can cause serious fires."

According to NFPA, lithium-ion battery fires burn extremely hot and release toxic gases — making them especially dangerous inside homes and apartment buildings. The city is asking residents to take a few basic precautions when charging, storing and maintaining their devices.

Charging

  • Only purchase devices, batteries and charging equipment listed by a nationally recognized testing lab.
  • Use only the battery and charger that came with the device.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Don't leave batteries charging unattended or overnight, and unplug them once fully charged.
  • Charge one device at a time to avoid overloading the circuit.
  • Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. NFPA advises against charging below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C).

Storage and handling

  • Store devices and batteries away from exit doors and anything that can get hot or catch fire.
  • Keep batteries out of direct sunlight and hot vehicles.
  • Avoid exposure to water or other liquids.
  • Keep out of reach of children.

Warning signs

Stop using an e-bike or e-scooter immediately if the battery gives off:

  • an unusual odor
  • a change in color
  • excessive heat
  • a change in shape, swelling or leaking
  • smoke, or a failure to hold a charge

Repairs and disposal

  • Have repairs done only by a qualified professional.
  • Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Take them to an approved battery recycling location, or contact the local waste department for disposal instructions.

If a battery catches fire

  • Leave the building immediately.
  • Do not try to extinguish the fire.
  • Call 911.

More safety information is available at nfpa.org/ebikes.

Lithium-ion batteries power many e-bikes and e-scooters, but if damaged or used incorrectly, they can cause serious fires. (Alexandria Fire Department)

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