Think before you buy

Published: Tuesday 10 March 2026

This image shows and electric scooter which has suffered fire damage

Council house tenants and residents are being reminded that electric scooters and bikes should not be stored in homes or shared areas.

They present a fire risk due to the lithium-ion batteries they contain.

If the batteries overheat, they can explode or catch fire, causing fast growing flames and excessive smoke which releases hazardous gasses which could be harmful to people and the property.  In the event of a fire, tenants and other residents may find their escape route blocked.

Other items which should not be stored in homes or shared areas include bottled gas, paraffin, petrol or any other dangerous material. 

Chair of the council’s Housing and Technical Resources Committee, Councillor Davie McLachan, said: “Ensuring the safety of our tenants, neighbouring residents and properties is a priority for us as a landlord.

“If you rent a home from the council, you and your household members must not store anything which could catch fire or explode in your home or in any shared area. 

“Please do not do anything to put you or your neighbours in danger.”

It should also be noted that electric scooters are not permitted on public roads, pavements or other public spaces, as they do not meet the necessary legal standards. Their use is only legal on private land with the landowner's consent.

A Home Fire Safety Visit can be requested from Scottish Fire and Rescue's wesbite or by calling 0800 0731 999.