Tenants cautioned about fire risk from storing mobility scooters

Tenants in West Dunbartonshire have received a stern warning about the potential fire threat posed by storing mobility scooters in communal areas such as entrances, hallways, and bin stores.

The issue of storing mobility scooters in these communal spaces was highlighted as a significant fire safety concern by both the West Dunbartonshire Council fire risk officer and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).

In response to this concern, the West Dunbartonshire Council has introduced new guidelines regarding the storage and charging of mobility scooters. Additionally, the council has updated its tenancy agreement to include information on safe storage practices.

The advice specifically targets tenants with class 3 mobility scooters, as these larger scooters can be more challenging to store within individual properties.

Under their enforcement powers, the SFRS already advises residents against storing or charging scooters in communal areas of buildings, as they can obstruct escape routes and pose a hazard. The SFRS also recommends that tenants receive home fire safety visits as a precautionary measure, a suggestion that has been incorporated into the Council’s updated guidance.

The council has commenced efforts to work with the small number of tenants who own class 3 scooters, and discussions have taken place with the West Dunbartonshire Tenants and Residents Organisation (WDTRO) as well as sheltered housing residents regarding the updated guidelines.

It is important to note that the storage guidelines in communal areas also apply to electric scooters, e-bikes, bikes, motorcycles, and prams.

Councillor Gurpreet Singh Johal, Convener of housing and communities, emphasised the importance of responsible storage and charging of mobility scooters to ensure the safety of all residents. He stated, “We recognise how vital mobility scooters are in helping people maintain their independence, but it is crucial that they are stored and charged in a way that prioritises everyone’s safety at home.”

Councillor Hazel Sorrell, Vice Convener of housing and communities, reiterated the council’s commitment to assisting tenants in finding suitable storage solutions for their mobility scooters. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that people can continue to use their scooters to get around. Additionally, tenants are encouraged to take advantage of free fire safety visits offered by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to ensure compliance with the new guidelines.