Do not charge an e-cycle or battery pack where, if a fire breaks out, it could prevent you from safely leaving your home. Avoid storing or charging e-cycles on escape routes or in communal areas of multi-occupied buildings. Ensure everyone is aware of an escape plan in the event of a fire. If possible, store and charge e-cycles and battery packs in a shed or garage separate from your home. As far as possible, do not charge batteries or store your e-cycle near combustible or flammable materials. If you charge or store your e-cycle inside your property, ensure you install suitable fire detection. Fire services recommend heat alarms rather than smoke alarms for garages or kitchens. Ensure you have working smoke alarms in other rooms. Avoid excessively hot, cold or damp areas, especially for charging. Charging an e-cycle Use only the charger supplied with the e-cycle, or a replacement authorised by the manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for storage, charging and maintenance of your battery pack. Do not overcharge your battery – check the manufacturer’s instructions for charge times and unplug your charger once the battery has charged. If it’s hot after intensive use, let the battery cool before charging it. It’s vitally important that you charge batteries only while you’re awake and alert so that if a fire should occur you can respond quickly. Do not leave batteries on charge while you are asleep or away from the home. Do not cover chargers or battery packs when charging as this could lead to overheating and possibly fire. Batteries should never be exposed to extreme temperatures (keep them out of direct sunlight when not in use). Do not overload socket outlets or extension leads. Use extension leads uncoiled and ensure the lead is suitably rated for what you are plugging into it – especially if using multiple chargers at once, or other electrical loads. Be alert, both while charging the battery and while using the e-cycle, for any of the warning signs listed below, and know how to act if you detect a fire hazard.