E-scooter destroyed in blaze in Ongar as fire service called

Blaze - An e-scooter went up in flames in Ongar yesterday <i>(Image: Brentwood Fire Station)</i>
Blaze - An e-scooter went up in flames in Ongar yesterday (Image: Brentwood Fire Station)
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A fire in a town has prompted fresh safety warnings about the dangers of lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles.

The incident involved an electric scooter which caught fire in Ongar, with crews from Brentwood Fire Station attending the scene.

A spokesman for the fire station said: "E-bikes and e-scooters use large lithium-ion batteries which can present a risk of serious fire or explosion in certain circumstances.

"While these can be used safely, there have been a number of fire incidents involving lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters, including in conversion kits."

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has issued safety advice for e-scooter and e-bike users including only buying from reputable sellers, using the correct charger, and following manufacturer instructions.

Users are also advised to charge devices in a safe location, avoid blocking exits, and never attempt to modify batteries.

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