Uber Eats and the London Fire Brigade launch the Charge Safe campaign to train delivery riders on the safe use of lithium batteries in bikes and scooters. The initiative comes after a record number of fires: 206 in 2025 and 64 in the first months of 2026. The goal is to reduce the risks of explosions and fires in homes and garages.
How lithium-ion battery chemistry demands quality control 🔥
Lithium-ion batteries store a lot of energy in a small space, but a manufacturing defect or a non-certified charger can cause internal short circuits. The Charge Safe campaign recommends purchasing batteries with CE marking and avoiding cheap products from online stores without a warranty. It also insists on not overcharging devices or exposing them to extreme temperatures, as heat accelerates dangerous chemical reactions.
The best way to charge your scooter: away from your favorite sofa ⚡
Because yes, charging your scooter in the living room while watching Netflix is convenient, but firefighters recommend doing it in a dry place away from furniture. If you notice the battery swelling like a birthday balloon, don't wait for it to burst: replace it immediately. And remember: the generic charger on sale is not your friend, it's a potential arsonist.