Warning after modified bike battery catches fire

Emergency services were called to Pasture Road in Stapleford on Sunday

A warning has been issued about tampering with batteries after a modified one caught fire in Stapleford.

Crews were called to Pasture Road on Sunday afternoon following reports that a bike battery had ignited and been left in the street.

It was seen to give off smoke and gas, raising concerns about toxic fumes, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said.

The brigade added it was seeing an "increased number" of such emergencies and advised people not to interfere with batteries and only use the correct chargers.

'Heightened fire risks'

The fire service said the modified battery had been kicked off the bike and into the street after it caught alight.

The road was closed for almost three hours while the battery was cooled and monitored.

A fire service spokesperson said: "We are seeing an increased number of incidents relating to lithium-ion batteries, especially as they are in items we use daily.

"We would like to remind people not to tamper with batteries or attempt to customise lithium-ion batteries on e-bikes and e-scooters due to the heightened fire risks.

"Additionally, it's important for people to only use the correct chargers, never buy second-hand or unsafe batteries online, and never leave items charging overnight or unattended."