Investigation Reveals Pattern of Deadly E-Bike Battery Fires
Fatalities and Injuries
A journalist, Fazil Khan, was killed in a fire caused by an exploding e-bike battery in Harlem, and more than 20 others were injured. The FDNY determined that the fire was caused by an unsafe charging practice in a residential building.
Complaints Ignored
Tenants in the building complained to the landlord about men living in the unit where the fire broke out charging e-bike batteries inside their apartment. A former tenant filed a formal complaint via 311, but there is no evidence that the landlord or any city agency responded.
Pattern of Deadly Blazes
A review of FDNY fire marshal reports shows that e-bike battery fires are a growing concern in New York City. In recent months, there have been multiple fires caused by e-bike batteries in residential buildings, resulting in fatalities and injuries.
Side Businesses With Deadly Consequences
Some tenants operate businesses in their apartments, repairing e-bike batteries. This can be a particularly dangerous circumstance because when one battery explodes, the fire often jumps to other batteries.
Explosive Batteries
Fire officials have voiced particular concern about batteries that are modified to increase their power, which makes them more volatile. In one case, a store owner was replacing lithium-ion batteries on e-bikes with non-factory batteries.
Conclusion
E-bike battery fires are a growing concern in New York City, and it is essential that landlords and tenants take steps to prevent these fires. The city must also ensure that e-bike batteries are safety certified and that businesses that repair e-bike batteries follow proper safety protocols.
FAQs
Q: What causes e-bike battery fires?
A: E-bike battery fires are often caused by unsafe charging practices, such as charging batteries inside residential buildings or using non-factory batteries.
Q: How can I prevent e-bike battery fires?
A: You can prevent e-bike battery fires by following proper safety protocols when charging your e-bike batteries. Make sure to charge batteries in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials, and use a certified charger.
Q: What should I do if I witness an e-bike battery fire?
A: If you witness an e-bike battery fire, immediately evacuate the area and call 911. Do not attempt to fight the fire yourself.
Q: What is the city doing to prevent e-bike battery fires?
A: The city is taking steps to prevent e-bike battery fires, including enforcing safety regulations and providing education to landlords and tenants.
