Modified electric bikes caused an explosive house fire at a home in Greater Manchester, which has prompted firefighters to warn residents of the dangers.

A house in Failsworth, Oldham, was the scene of the fire, which was caused by multiple modified electric bikes, according to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS).

Footage released by GMFRS shows the devastating impact of the fire, which happened at just before 6am on Sunday, November 20.

Three fire engines from Hollins, Manchester Central and Philips Park fire stations responded to the fire involving the living room of a terraced house, and firefighters used two breathing apparatus and one hose reel to extinguish it.

Read more: Family's terror and lucky escape as fire tears through home in the middle of night

Two casualties were assessed at the scene by paramedics before being taken to hospital for checks.

Greater Manchester residents are being warned to be careful when buying, storing and charging electric bikes.

The warning comes following a similar incident in August this year where a fire – that was most likely caused by an electric bike being charged – caused significant damage to a property in Manchester. Firefighters from Withington and Gorton were on scene for five hours as they put out the fire.

People are advised to follow these simple steps:

  • If you are buying an electric bike or scooter, remember to buy them, as well as chargers and batteries, from reputable retailers.
  • If you’re buying an electric bike conversion kit, purchase from a reputable seller and check that it complies with British or European standards.

GMFRS’s Head of Prevention Area Manager Billy Fenwick said:

“This incident shows the devastating effects that a fire involving an electric bike battery can have.

“Batteries can be a fire risk if they’re over-charged, short circuited, or damaged, so it’s important to protect them against being damaged and to charge them safely.

Read more: Man taken to hospital with 'quite severe injuries' after house fire

“By following our advice on the storage and charging of electric bikes and scooters, Greater Manchester residents can help to keep themselves safe from fire.”

If you have an electric bike or scooter, remember to:

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storing your electric bike/scooter
  • Fit smoke or heat detection in the room where you charge or store your electric bike/scooter
  • Store electric bikes/scooters and their batteries in a cool place. Avoid excessively hot or cold places
  • Always use the manufacturer approved charger for the product
  • Don’t overcharge and always unplug your charger when it’s finished charging
  • Don’t leave batteries to charge while you are asleep or away from the home
  • Don’t charge batteries or store your electric bike/scooter near combustible or flammable materials.
  • In the event of an electric bike/scooter or lithium-ion battery fire – do not attempt to extinguish the fire. Get out, stay out, call 999

You can find further advice for the safe use of electric bikes and scooters on the GMFRS website: https://www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/your-safety/fire-safety/house-maisonette-or-bungalow/electrical/e-bikes-and-e-scooters