Prince William takes advice on using his electric scooter
The electrical safety organization Electrical Safety First (ESF) is now providing safety advice on charging electric scooters to Prince William. This follows a viral video showing the heir to the throne using such a vehicle in the gardens of Windsor Castle.
Last year, it was reported that the Prince of Wales had bought an electric scooter for his travels around the Windsor estate. Indeed, a source told The Sun that a two to three-mile journey from his family home at Adelaide Cottage to Windsor Castle is easier by scooter than by car or on foot.
Prince William treats himself to an electric scooter to zip around vast Windsor estatehttps://t.co/ze8Sku0RKB
— The Sun (@TheSun) July 16, 2023
Legal framework for electric scooters in the UK
In the UK, it is legal to drive private electric scooters on private land with the owner’s permission, but they are prohibited on public roads. The popularity of electric scooters and bicycles continues to grow in the UK; however, they are also associated with several fires, with London firefighters calling them a “rapidly growing fire risk.” Most of these fires involve second-hand vehicles or those modified with parts bought online.
Safety advice from ESF
Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at ESF, points out that electric scooters and bicycles, purchased from reputable retailers, used within the law, and charged safely, are no more dangerous than any other electric vehicle. However, some practices can be adopted to ensure the safe use of these devices.
For Prince William, ESF recommends using a compatible charger to ensure the battery receives the appropriate voltage. If the original charger is lost, it is advisable to refer to the manufacturer for a suitable replacement. In addition, although space is not lacking at Adelaide Cottage, the Prince should avoid charging his electric scooter overnight or near stairs and emergency exits.
It is also recommended to always unplug the device once charging is complete. Finally, electric scooter users are encouraged to follow the Prince’s example by using these vehicles only on private land.
ESF Safety Protocol
The ESF “Royal Protocol” for safely charging your electric scooter includes the following advice:
- Buy from reputable retailers: always buy your electric scooter or electric bike from a reputable retailer. Avoid third-party sellers on online marketplaces to ensure product safety standards.
- Use original chargers and batteries: only use the manufacturer’s chargers and batteries. Non-conforming replacements increase the risk of fire.
- Avoid unverified sellers: do not buy from market stalls or through third-party online sellers. These products may not have undergone appropriate safety tests.
- Follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions: always follow the charging instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Unplug after charging: once your device is charged, unplug it to prevent the battery from overheating, especially if it is of poor quality.
- Avoid charging overnight: whenever possible, do not charge your device while you sleep. Nighttime fires are particularly dangerous due to reduced reaction times.
- Charge in safe locations: never charge your device in emergency exit areas such as hallways, landings, or stairs. This could obstruct evacuation routes in the event of a fire.
- Do not modify battery packs: do not modify battery packs, as this can cause fires. User instructions should indicate necessary maintenance.
- Use RCD protected outlets: charge your device in an outlet protected by a Residual Current Device (RCD) and ensure there are working smoke detectors in the area.
- Avoid high temperatures: do not leave batteries in direct sunlight or in high temperature areas.
- In case of fire: if your battery catches fire, do not try to extinguish it yourself. Evacuate the area and call the firefighters immediately.