London Fire Brigade and Uber Eats partner on e-bike battery safety

As part of this proactive fire safety initiative, the two organisations are developing refreshed in-app educational modules for Uber Eats delivery couriers that focus specifically on battery health and fire risks. These materials, which draw on verified guidance from the LFB’s fire safety experts, are rolling out throughout 2026.

Importantly, the training ensures that couriers have access to clear and practical information on the critical importance of using compatible chargers and are informed on the necessary steps to take if a battery shows signs of overheating.

Merve Basci, general manager for the UK at Uber Eats, stated: “Partnering with the London Fire Brigade on the #ChargeSafe campaign is a vital pillar of our work to protect couriers and the communities we serve. While we encourage the transition to electric travel, it’s essential that anyone using e-bikes does so in line with the highest safety standards. This revamped education engages couriers directly, giving them the tools they need to source and use their e-bikes responsibly as we work together to keep London safe.”

Devastating consequences

Richard Field (Deputy Assistant Commissioner at the London Fire Brigade) explained: “We’re really pleased to have this opportunity to partner with Uber Eats. We launched our #ChargeSafe campaign back in March 2023 when we started to see a rise in the number of e-bike and e-scooter fires. Sadly, the number of such fires rose last year to the highest level since the campaign began. The worrying data means we need to ensure that every e-bike user has access to our important safety information to help curb this alarming trend.”

Field went on to comment: “Our firefighters have seen first-hand the devastating consequences when owners buy unsafe products online. Cheaper products might look like a ‘bargain’, but if a deal looks too good to be true, then it probably is. When buying and using e-bikes, we ask that owners think carefully and educate themselves about the fire safety risks in order to keep themselves and those around them safe.”

Strong regulation

Many delivery riders rely on this greener mode of transport to navigate their way around London in a fast and efficient way, but 999 calls to these type of fires prove that there’s a need for strong regulation to prevent the sale of unsafe products. “Those that rely on e-bikes for work,” noted Field, “need to be protected from harm and be confident that they’re not bringing a fire safety risk into their homes at the end of the working day.”

In conclusion, Field said: “This training is vital to educate everyone on the best way to keep safe, not only for the riders themselves, but also the community as a whole.”

*Further information is available online at www.london-fire.gov.uk/chargesafe