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Newry, Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership is urging residents to think carefully before purchasing or using electric scooters especially where children or young people are involved, warning that their use in public places remains illegal in Northern Ireland and can pose serious safety risks. The partnership is also highlighting the fire dangers linked to the lithium-ion batteries used to power them.
Despite their growing popularity, many people remain unaware that privately owned e-scooters cannot legally be ridden on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, parks or other public spaces. Current legislation restricts their use to private land and only with the permission of the landowner. E-scooters are treated as motor vehicles, but most do not meet the legal requirements needed for road use, including registration, insurance and vehicle safety standards.
The PCSP said it was concerned that the increasing use of e-scooters in public places was creating unnecessary risks for riders, pedestrians and other road users. Unlike bicycles, many e-scooters are capable of reaching considerable speeds and often lack the safety features required for use in busy public environments, which can significantly increase the likelihood of collisions and serious injury, particularly where children and young people are involved.
Residents are also reminded that enforcement action may be taken against those who use e-scooters illegally. Police have powers to deal with vehicles being used unlawfully or causing nuisance and anti-social behaviour, and recent legislative changes have been introduced to strengthen seizure powers available to the PSNI.
The PCSP said that when damaged, poorly maintained or charged incorrectly, lithium batteries can fail catastrophically, causing intense fires that spread rapidly and produce toxic smoke. Owners are urged never to leave e-scooters charging unattended, particularly overnight, and to always use approved chargers and follow manufacturer guidance.
Newry, Mourne and Down PCSP Chairperson, Councillor Jill Truesdale, said: "There is a misconception that because e-scooters are widely available to buy, they can be used anywhere. That is simply not the case. In Northern Ireland, privately owned e-scooters remain illegal for use on public roads, pavements and other public spaces.
"We are particularly concerned about the number of young people using these vehicles without fully understanding the legal implications or the potential consequences. A moment's misjudgement can result in serious injury to the rider, a pedestrian or another road user."
Cllr Truesdale added: "We're also asking families to be aware of the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. Across the UK there has been growing concern about battery-related fires involving e-scooters and similar devices. Charging should always be carried out safely and in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
"The message is clear: know the law, understand the risks and put safety first."
Newry, Mourne and Down PCSP is encouraging parents, guardians and retailers to help raise awareness of the current legislation and the importance of using electric mobility devices responsibly. For further information, contact Newry, Mourne and Down PCSP at PCSP@nmandd.org.
