BONUS - WATT COULD GO WRONG

Episode Title: Bonus Episode – The Hidden Dangers of E-Bike and E-Scooter Release Date: 3 March 2025 Host(s): Adam Carter Louise Baxter MBE (LouBax) Guest(s): Geraldine Cosh – Product Safety Expert Episode Summary: It’s the final episode of Season 4, and we’re wrapping up with a bonus episode that could literally save lives. In this special episode, Adam and LouBax introduce Consumer Friend’s latest campaign: Watt Could Go Wrong (yes, that’s WATT, as in electricity—shoutout to LouBax for the pun! 😉). This campaign raises awareness about the hidden dangers of e-bike and e-scooter battery fires and encourages everyone to Buy Safe, Charge Safe, Store Safe. To help us break it all down, we’re joined by Geraldine Cosh, a product safety expert with over 20 years of experience. Geraldine shares insider knowledge on why lithium-ion batteries are such a fire risk, how the laws around these products are struggling to keep up, and what businesses, landlords, and consumers need to do to stay safe. 🚲 E-bikes and e-scooters are great for the environment—but if their batteries overheat or fail, they can catch fire within seconds. The consequences can be devastating, especially for those living in flats or shared housing. 🔥 Did you know? Fires caused by e-bike and e-scooter batteries have tripled since 2020. Many incidents happen at night while charging—often with counterfeit or damaged batteries. Storage is just as important as charging—blocking a fire exit with an e-bike could be deadly. Whether you own an e-bike, e-scooter, or just charge electronics at home, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: ✅ Why e-bike and e-scooter battery fires are on the rise ✅ How to identify safe vs. unsafe batteries before you buy ✅ The real risks of modification kits and tampering ✅ Why buying from a reputable UK retailer matter ✅ Essential tips for safely charging and storing batteries ✅ What landlords and social housing providers can do to protect tenants Consumer Friend’s Call to Action: 🚨 Get Involved in the Watt Could Go Wrong Campaign! 🚨 All campaign materials, including posters, guides, and social media assets, are available now on our website. 📲 Download and share them today! → www.consumerfriend.org.uk/campaigns 🙌 Whether you’re a social housing provider, local authority, or a concerned consumer, help us spread the message and keep communities safe. Resources & Links: Watt Could Go Wrong Campaign Hub → Electrical Safety First Guide on Lithium-Ion Batteries → Geraldine Cosh’s Website & Product Safety Resources → Send us Fan Mail Please like, subscribe and rate to help increase the reach in the UK. You can also follow us on socials: Facebook Website: Consumer Friend Twitter: @ConsumerFriendUK Instagram: @ConsumerFriendOfficial TikTok