E-Bike dangers have New Yorkers seeing red instead of green

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 will assist in instructing local businesses regarding the safe charging of e-bikes and scooters.

FDNY Commissioner Kavanagh said, "We are devastated by the losses suffered at the fire at the e-bike store in Chinatown. Too many people have lost their lives because of lithium-ion batteries.”

There have been at least five recent fires suspected to have been caused by lithium-ion batteries:

* An all-hands fire on the third floor of 3636 Holland Avenue on June 15. One person was reportedly injured.

* An all-hands fire reported at 1420 Washington Avenue, also on June 15.

* A fire reported on the 4th- floor of 1387 Jessup Avenue on June 11.

* A fire was reported at an e-bike store at 275 East 206 Street on June 7.

* An e-bike fire reported in the rear of 1579 Leland Avenue on June 7.

The Bronx Voice has asked the FDNY for a list of recent lithium-ion related fires in the Bronx, while asking them to confirm the list above involving these batteries. The FDNY was unable to provide a list or confirm that the fires above were caused by these batteries, before the publication of this article.

The FDNY is urging owners of Lithium-ion-powered devices to visit the following website for the best practices to share and store these vehicles, visit:

www.FDNYSmart.org.

Meanwhile, the 49th Precinct sent out this recent warning on Twitter, telling residents, “Be aware that thieves working in pairs are using mopeds / e-bikes to snatch chains off the necks of pedestrians.” Officials say be aware of your surroundings and remain cautious when two people ride a scooter on a sidewalk.