Man escapes through first-floor window after e-bike fire at Derby home

Firefighters are warning people about the dangers of charging e-bikes at home after a man escaped from a terraced house fire in Derby by jumping from a first-floor window. 

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service received a call at 3am this morning (Friday 19th June) when Police officers in the area came across the fire at a terraced property on Uttoxeter New Road, Derby.

Fire crews from Ascot Drive, Kingsway and Nottingham Road attended the incident, finding the property well alight on arrival. One man had escaped the fire by jumping from the first floor of the property before firefighters arrived – thankfully he did not sustain any injuries. No one else was inside the property at the time of the fire.

A fire investigation has determined that the most likely cause of the fire was accidental electrical, linked to an e-bike being charged inside the property.

The fire spread rapidly and caused significant damage, including the collapse of an internal wall.

Station Manager Johnny Smith said: “This was a serious fire that developed very quickly and caused significant damage including the collapse of an internal wall. The occupant was extremely fortunate to escape without injury.  

“Fires involving lithium batteries, including those used in e-bikes and other charging devices, can escalate rapidly and produce intense heat and toxic smoke in a very short space of time. 

“We strongly advise against charging e-bikes or similar items overnight while you are asleep, when you are less able to respond if something goes wrong. It is also vital to ensure that escape routes are always kept clear; incidents like this underline just how quickly you may need to leave your home and how severe these fires can be. 

“We are seeing a growing number of fires linked to e-bikes nationally, and it’s important that people understand the risks and take simple steps to reduce them.” 

E-bike fire prevention advice 

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service is urging people to take extra care when using and charging e-bikes and other lithium battery-powered devices:

• Avoid charging overnight or when you are sleeping.
• Never block escape routes with e-bikes or charging equipment.
• Use the correct charger supplied with the device.
• Do not overcharge batteries — unplug once fully charged.
• Keep batteries away from heat and flammable materials.
• Avoid charging on soft furnishings such as beds or sofas.
• Check for damage to batteries or chargers — if in doubt, don’t use them.
• Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home.

For more fire safety advice search home fire safety. From this website you can also access a simple online DIY home fire safety check that will provide advice and tips for preventing a fire in your home Home Fire Safety Check: Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service