Edo firefighter warns of fire hazard with e-bikes: 'Battery can explode'

Edo Brouwer, a firefighter in the Gooi and Vechtstreek region, warns: "If charged incorrectly, the battery can catch fire and even explode within seconds. The problem is that residents only notice something is wrong when it's already too late." We spoke with him about this worrying issue, and he offers eight important tips for using your e-bike responsibly.

Many people don't realize that an e-bike battery can be dangerous. The risk lies in the lithium-ion battery, the heart of the electric bike. Such a battery consists of countless cells that deliver a lot of energy in a small area. This is precisely what makes the battery vulnerable.

If something goes wrong—for example, a fall, a manufacturing defect, or improper charging—a chain reaction can occur. This is called Thermal Runaway . It sounds complicated, but it essentially means that the temperature in one cell rises so high that adjacent cells overheat, causing the battery to heat up even further. This can lead to a fire or even an explosion.

To prevent fire or even explosion, it's essential to handle your e-bike battery with care. But how do you actually charge it safely? Firefighter Edo Brouwer shares his top tips for preventing accidents and using your e-bike responsibly.

Always place your battery on a flat, stable, and non-flammable surface. This prevents heat buildup and ensures even heat dissipation. So, do n't charge the battery on the couch; you're asking for trouble.

Never charge your bicycle battery overnight, as you'll miss the first signs of a fire. Instead, charge the battery during the day and when you're home. If the battery overheats, you'll notice it immediately and can act quickly.

Once the battery is full: usually after two to three hours. Unplug it immediately to prevent the battery from overcharging.

Always place a smoke detector in the room where the battery is being charged, including the shed or garage.

The location where you charge is also crucial. The best option is a shed or garage. However, be careful not to charge the battery in direct sunlight or when it's freezing. Don't have a garage or shed? Then choose a closed-off space indoors, but always ensure there's a smoke detector. Extra tip: Make sure escape routes aren't blocked , and never charge in front of doors.

Make sure you always charge the battery with the manufacturer's original charger. Don't use cheap or counterfeit chargers. These chargers are often not designed for the bicycle battery, causing the battery to overheat or short-circuit much faster.

Has your battery ever been dropped or damaged? Then take it to a certified bicycle specialist immediately. The battery could be damaged without you even noticing. Even if you don't see anything on the outside, the damage inside is extensive.

"Certainly do n't try to fix it yourself , and friends or repair shops aren't a good solution either," emphasizes Edo Brouwer. Also, have your battery tested if you're having problems charging and there's any visible deformation on the battery.

If you haven't used your electric bike for a while, recharge the battery, preferably once every three months. The battery drains slowly anyway, even when you're not cycling. And not charging it for too long can still damage the battery.

If, despite the precautions, something goes wrong and smoke appears, the message is clear, according to Brouwer: "Leave the house immediately! A lithium-ion battery can spread very quickly, and it can even explode. So always go outside first and only then call the fire department."

An e-bike is a fantastic invention, but it does require attention and care. With a few simple habits, like charging in a safe place, using original chargers, and installing smoke detectors, you can prevent a lot of problems. This way, your e-bike remains a useful and safe invention!