If you’re planning on buying any electrical items, like e-scooters, this festive period or in the black Friday sales, it’s really important that you’re buying reliable items from approved retailers.
Purchasing from suppliers
If you’re looking to buy any electrical items, please make sure that you’re buying them directly from approved retailers, like well-known shops and department stores, so you can be sure they’re safe to use in your home.
You can use comparison sites online to compare prices between retailers online to find the best deal.
Register your appliance
Once you’ve bought your electrical appliance, you should always register the device as soon as possible. This allows the supplier to contact you in case there’s any recalls or problems with your item. Your item will usually come with the relevant information for you to register it. For more information visit: Home - Register My Appliance
Replacing chargers
If you need to replace an old charger, or any element of your appliance, be sure to purchase them through the manufacturer website or through an approved retailer. There are lots of cheap chargers that are sold on third-party websites that might not be tested or made safe for use.
Using unsafe or untested electrical elements could put both yourself and your neighbours in danger.
Things to keep in mind
Here are some handy reminders on what you shouldn’t do when charging anything that contains batteries, particularly e-scooters or mobility scooters:
- Chargers and batteries should not be left unattended while charging, including while you sleep
- Batteries can get warm during use and should be left to cool down before you charge them
- Batteries should also be charged away from combustible or flammable materials, such as soft furnishings, and on hard, flat surfaces, to allow heat to dissipate
- Make sure you have a working smoke alarm near the place you charge your e-scooter and test it weekly to make sure it works
- Only use manufacturer-approved batteries and store them correctly – cheaper or damaged batteries can be dangerous and start fires
- Follow all guidance from the manufacturer with charging and storing your e-scooter/electrical device
- Never buy second hand e-scooters or other devices
- Never change your existing bikes or scooters to e-devices by 'doing it yourself'
- If at any point when you’re charging devices and they get really hot, turn off the charger and allow it to cool
- Never charge devices in your hallway or landing as these are your escape routes
Remember, you should always take out contents insurance to protect your belongings in case of a fire. You can find out more on contents insurance by visiting our helpful web page.
We have lots of useful information on fire safety in your home on our web page.
