FIREFIGHTERS have issued another e-bike safety warning after a blaze at a house in Balmoral Drive, Hayes, in the early hours of this morning (28).

Most of the ground floor, the entire first floor and part of the loft of a semi-detached house were damaged.

A man left the house before the brigade arrived and was taken to hospital.

The blaze is believed to have been caused by batteries for an e-bike.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Lithium-ion batteries are susceptible to failure if incorrect chargers are used. There is a significant risk posed by e-bikes which have been converted.

“Another issue is that when the batteries fail, they eject their contents over a wide area which can lead to multiple areas of burning.

“Our advice is to try to store and charge these items in a safe location, such as a shed or garage. If they have to be stored inside, make sure there is smoke detection fitted.

“We would also suggest people try not to charge them when they are asleep.”

The brigade was called at 12.53am and the fire was under control by 2.15. Four engines and around 25 crew from Hillingdon, Southall and Hayes attended.