Thinking of an e-scooter or e-bike as a Christmas present? Neath Port Talbot Council’s Road Safety Team, South Wales Police and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service have shared an important message with families. The full letter can be downloaded below.

E-scooters
Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to ride in public places in Wales. That includes roads, pavements, car parks, parks, playgrounds and cycle paths. You can only ride one on private land with the landowner’s permission.

E-bikes
A legal e-bike must have working pedals, a motor of 250 watts or less and power assistance that cuts out at 15.5mph. Riders must be 14 or over, and nobody can ride one on the pavement. An e-bike that doesn’t meet these rules counts as a motorbike or moped. It then needs a licence, insurance, tax, registration and a motorcycle helmet.

Riding illegally can lead to fines, penalty points, prosecution and the police seizing the bike or scooter. Just because a shop or website sells one doesn’t mean it’s legal to ride on the road. Check the motor power, assisted speed and pedals before you buy.

Charging safely at home
E-bike and e-scooter batteries can overheat and catch fire. To keep your family safe:

Never leave a battery charging overnight or when you’re out.
Don’t charge or store it in a hallway or anywhere that could block your way out.
Use the correct charger, and buy from trusted retailers.
Stop using a battery straight away if it gets hot, swells, leaks, smells or smokes.

If a battery catches fire, don’t try to put it out. Get everyone out, close the doors behind you and call 999. For a free Safe and Well visit, including smoke alarm checks, call Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service on 0800 169 1234 or visit www.mawwfire.gov.uk.

Reporting illegal riding
South Wales Police’s Operation Grebe tackles illegal and dangerous riding. You can report it through the South Wales Police online portal.

Diolch for helping our young people make safe choices.