Coroner Warns of “Life-Threatening” Risks of Ebikes Following Tragic Death of Eight-Year-Old Boy
In a tragic incident that highlights the potential dangers of electronic bikes (ebikes), eight-year-old Luke Albiston O’Donnell passed away in hospital due to hypoxia and carbon monoxide poisoning after an e-bike caught fire in his Merseyside home. The fire, ignited by the lithium battery of the e-bike, spread rapidly and produced toxic fumes that led to the young boy’s untimely death. This case has prompted a stern warning from the Liverpool and Wirral coroner, Anita Bhardwaj, regarding the life-threatening risks associated with storing e-bikes and scooters in residential properties.
An inquest revealed that there were thirteen fatalities from fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters in the years 2022 and 2023, according to data released by the Office of Product Safety and Standards. The coroner’s concern is fueled by the lack of awareness among the general public about the risks posed by lithium batteries used in these electronic devices. Anita Bhardwaj has issued a preventing future deaths (PFD) report to various authorities, emphasizing the urgent need for better dissemination of information on the safe storage of e-bikes and e-scooters.
The coroner’s report is not an isolated case, as similar incidents have occurred across the UK, prompting calls for immediate action to prevent future tragedies. One such incident involved the death of a man in Bristol whose home caught fire due to an overheated e-bike battery pack, while another heartbreaking story from Cambridge saw a family perish in a fire caused by a faulty e-bike battery. These incidents have led to multiple PFD reports urging the Government to implement robust safety measures to regulate the sale and use of lithium-ion batteries for electronic mobility devices.
The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) issued a warning advising consumers to exercise caution when purchasing e-bikes and e-scooters, especially from unauthorised online sellers, to mitigate the risk of fire-related incidents. The DBT highlighted the importance of using genuine parts recommended by manufacturers, seeking professional assistance for repairs or modifications, and purchasing from reputable sources to ensure product safety. The frequency of e-bike fires has raised concerns, with the London Fire Brigade responding to numerous incidents that resulted in fatalities and injuries.
Charity organisation Electrical Safety First echoed the urgent need for stricter safety regulations and enforcement to prevent future tragedies involving lithium-ion batteries. The charity called for mandatory third-party certification, stringent standards for products and components, and comprehensive safety guidelines for charging systems and accessories. The introduction of the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill was seen as a positive step, but more stringent measures are needed to safeguard against the risks posed by e-bikes and e-scooters.
The tragic death of young Luke Albiston O’Donnell serves as a sombre reminder of the potential dangers lurking in our own homes, urging the public to exercise caution when handling electronic devices powered by lithium batteries. The coroner’s warning underscores the critical need for heightened public awareness, stringent safety regulations, and responsible consumer behaviour to prevent future incidents of e-bike-related fires. As authorities and stakeholders work towards enhancing safety standards and promoting informed decision-making around e-mobility products, the hope is to avert further loss of life and protect communities from the devastating consequences of preventable accidents.