E-bike battery fires are very rare, and following some simple best practices can help further prevent them.
To ensure safety, e-bikes should be tested for compliance with either the ANSI/CAN/UL-2849 or EN-15194 standards, which cover electrical and fire safety, and are recognized in North America and Europe respectively.
Only use the battery and the charger that were designed for, and came with, the device. Do not use aftermarket, low-cost, counterfeit, or refurbished e-bike batteries. Only charge your e-bike battery with the charger provided by the manufacturer.
Don’t modify your e-bike or attempt to repair it yourself. For maintenance, always go to an authorized dealer for your e-bike brand.
Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged. Do not leave a charging e-bike battery unattended or on the charger overnight.
Store batteries away from anything flammable. Store and charge your battery in a dry environment at room temperature and protect it from direct sunlight. Store e-bikes and their batteries away from exit doors and anything that can get hot or catch fire. If possible, store your e-bike battery in a fire-resistant cabinet or container when not in use. Keep batteries away from children and liquids.
You should only charge the battery up to 100% when you first receive it to balance its cells, however, subsequent charges should only go up to 80% (unless your intended trip is an exception, like e-cargo touring.) This reduces stress on the cells which will aid in expanding the life of your battery. When storing it long-term, store the battery with a 30% to 60% charge and avoid completely discharging it before storing.
Stop using the e-bike if you notice any of these problems with the battery: unusual odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, leaking, smoking, or not keeping a charge. Do not use or attempt to charge a damaged or malfunctioning e-bike battery. Store it outside and away from flammable objects until it can be safely disposed of.
Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is always the best option. Take the batteries to a battery recycling location or contact your local waste department for disposal instructions.
If you see a fire leave the building immediately and call 911. Lithium-ion battery fires give off toxic gases and they burn extremely hot.