Suffolk Trading Standards warn of dangerous e-scooters seized from Port of Felixstowe that could lead to injury or even death

Suffolk residents are being warned of the dangers of e-scooters after thousands have been seized over safety concerns which could lead to injury or even death.

Suffolk Trading Standards Imports Surveillance team, based at the Port of Felixstowe, has noted a significant increase in these vehicles being detained or refused entry into the country, with 13,000 e-scooters and e-bikes seized in the last two years.

Although e-scooters can be purchased privately, it is illegal for them to be used on public roads, cycle lanes or pavements.

This has not stopped their popularity, however, and rogue traders try to capitalise on this by producing substandard versions of the vehicles.

Officers at the port found that batteries and chargers for the scooters posed a serious risk of fire or electric shock, putting consumers at risk of injury or even death.

A further 9,000 e-scooters were also refused entry into the country following to the involvement of Suffolk Trading Standards after failing to meet the requirements for marking, instructions, and essential safety documentation.

Graham Crisp, Head of Suffolk Trading Standards, said: “Stopping the sale of thousands of unsafe e-scooters is a fantastic achievement for our Imports Surveillance team and is a testament to their tireless work to intercept dangerous goods before these can enter the marketplace, protecting not just Suffolk residents but consumers across the country.

“Of course, people can keep themselves safe by only purchasing e-scooters from a reputable retailer, ensuring the vehicle comes with accompanying safety guidance and looking for the CE or UKCA mark.

“Whilst buying cheaper batteries or battery converter kits for e-scooters and e-bikes can be tempting for those looking to save money, they could end up paying the ultimate price.”

Councillor Andrew Reid, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection, added: “Fire services nationally are seeing an increase in incidents caused by e-scooters and e-bikes, with there sadly being a fatality following a fire in London at the beginning of the year believed to have been started by a faulty e-bike battery which burst into flames.

“Care should be taken even when using legitimate batteries and chargers; batteries should be allowed time to cool down before being charged and chargers should be unplugged immediately after use to help reduce the risk of fire.

“E-scooter and e-bike users should also avoid charging the vehicles in residential buildings overnight as this is when the majority of fires have happened due to people being asleep and unaware of chargers starting to overheat before igniting.”

To help further combat the problem of dangerous e-scooters, the Imports Surveillance team has produced guidance for importers, which is also available in simplified Chinese in recognition that most product consignments entering the UK originate from China.

Anyone who suspects they may have purchased a dangerous e-scooter or e-bike should stop using it immediately and contact Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133.