SAN DIEGO — A new California state law allows renters to store and charge their e-bikes and scooters indoors.
Under the new state law, a tenant can be required to have liability insurance if their e-bike doesn't meet state guidelines and is stored indoors. Alternatively landlords can also choose to provide exterior storage and prohibit renters from storing the e-bike inside.
Fire hazard
The San Diego Fire Department has seen an increase in fires caused by e-bikes. Last year a lithium battery exploded at a Barrio Logan apartment.
San Diego resident Jesse was in the building when the fire broke out last and destroyed a unit on the first floor. One person was taken to the hospital.
"When your life flashes before your eyes you're just happy you have a place to live," Jesse said.
"It's hotter than our normal fires and incredibly difficult to put out. There's no fire extinguisher you can use at home or garden hose. We have issues ourselves," San Diego Fire Battalion Chief Robert Rezende.
He says prevention is key. It's best to never charge e-bike, scooter or hoverboard batteries overnight or charge unattended.
"You don't wanna overcharge lithium ion batteries. once you see that green light, unplug it. that's the best thing you can do," said Tracy Sheffer, the owner of Pedego Electric Bikes in La Jolla.
Sheffer says to avoid buying generic chargers from Amazon. The fire department also recommends to be aware of recalls and only use certified batteries and chargers.
"We do no recommend using a battery that's not made by the manufacturer for that particular model," Rezende said.
Sheffer said education is key.
"This isn't going away this is here to stay so we all need to develop safety standards and just educate everybody," Sheffer said.
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