Bournemouth flat fire: Residents evacuated from flat after e-bike fire

An investigation found the Bournemouth fire started accidentally in a converted electric bike

Residents were evacuated from an overnight fire in a block of flats that was caused by an e-bike.

The blaze, on the fifth floor of a high-rise building at Westover Road in Bournemouth, was reported to Dorset & Wiltshire Fire Service at 01:30 GMT.

Fifty firefighters attended the scene and all residents were evacuated, with one treated for smoke inhalation.

An investigation found that the fire had started accidentally in a converted electric bike within one of the flats.

Station Manager Shaun Milton said: "We know that e-bikes and e-scooters are increasingly popular, but it's vital that owners understand what to look for when buying them, and how to charge them safely.

"Anyone buying an e-bike conversion kit should always purchase from a reputable seller, and check that it complies with British or European safety standards.

"You should also check that the various components are compatible."

Residents were alerted to the fire by the smoke alarms in the building and 10 fire engines attended the call.

The fire was extinguished by about 02:30.

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