NYC Steps Up to Fight Improper Use of E-Bikes

After deadly fires erupted throughout New York City this year, officials are taking a stand and asking the public for help.

E-Bike shops have reportedly been improperly handling and storing lithium ion batteries, which have led to deadly fires in the city, according to FOX Business.

Last Tuesday, in particular, was an especially bad day in Manhattan as a fire broke out at an e-bike repair shop resulting in four deaths due to smoke inhalation and several injuries to the residents in the building above the shop and a firefighter.

Over 100 fires linked to e-bikes have occurred in New York City this year alone and resulted in 13 deaths, NYC officials announced.

The New York City Fire Department Chief Fire Marshall, Daniel Flynn, has encouraged the public to report any “hazardous conditions” they encounter inside e-bike repair shops including batteries being charged in close proximity or with an extension cord and devices that appear damaged.

The lithium ion batteries that power e-bikes can be a major fire hazard if they are not properly charged or defective. They can produce fast-moving fires that make it very challenging for first responders to extinguish.