Faculty/Staff Search

OR

Department/Unit Search

  1. Home
  2. Safety Basics
  3. E-Bike and Battery Safety

E-Bike and Battery Safety

Charge safely. Know the warning signs.

Use compatible equipment, keep escape routes clear, and watch for damage in e-bikes and other rechargeable devices.

When the Alarm Sounds

Know what to do during a fire alarm and how to leave safely.

View Evacuation Guidance

Contact Fire Safety

Ask about extinguisher safety, equipment concerns, or training.

Contact Fire Safety

Watch for Warning Signs

Do not continue using or charging a battery if you notice:

  • Swelling, leaking, or visible damage.
  • Unusual heat, odour, hissing, or popping sounds.
  • Smoke or sparks.

If there is smoke, fire, sparking, rapid heating, or hissing or popping, leave the area immediately and call 911 from a safe location.

Do not delay leaving to unplug, move, or attempt to extinguish a failing battery.

Call 911

Use Compatible, Certified Equipment

Use the battery and charger supplied with the device, or a replacement recommended by its manufacturer.

Choose chargers with a recognized Canadian certification mark, such as CSA, cUL, or cETL.

Do not use damaged cords, incompatible chargers, or modified battery packs.

Charge Safely

Charge only where permitted and follow the rules for the building. Use a clear, stable surface away from bedding, soft furnishings, and other combustible materials.

Keep exits, corridors, stairwells, and escape routes clear.

Stay nearby while charging e-bikes and e-scooters. Do not charge them while asleep or away. Follow the manufacturer's charging instructions and disconnect the charger when charging is complete.

Report a Battery or Charging Concern

Contact Western Fire Safety about non-emergency concerns involving charging practices, battery storage, damaged equipment, or blocked exits.

Include the building name, room or location, device type, and a brief description of the concern.

Do not place batteries in garbage or regular recycling bins. Ask for safe disposal guidance for damaged batteries.

For the urgent warning signs listed above, leave the area and call 911 from a safe location. Do not report an emergency by email.

Email Fire Safety

Helpful Contacts

Emergency Assistance

Emergency: 911

Call 911 if there is fire, smoke, an active alarm, or an immediate threat to life or safety.

WSCS Non-Emergency / After-Hours Assistance:
519-661-3300

Western Fire Safety

Email: firesafety@uwo.ca
Phone: 519-661-2111 ext. 88053
Location: Graphics Building, Room 123
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.