This week, in the wake of the 5-alarm fire in Fordham Heights on Sunday, March 5, caused by a lithium-ion battery explosion from the charging of an e-bike, we asked readers their thoughts on the use of illegal, damaged or improper chargers or lithium-ion batteries.

 

“It’s an urban nightmare! Bringing something that’s flammable and explosive into a city of eight-and-a-half million people is crazy. To risk your neighbor’s life, firemen’s lives, your life, and the ruination of housing stock that’s depleted as it is…for what? Deliveries? You can’t pick up your own stuff? And I think the city really has to crack down on it, make it a law. You don’t have the right to burn me out of my apartment.”

C.J. Sullivan

Former Fordham Manor resident now living in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

“I believe one neighbor in the building has one and he has that bike and that battery on it. I just see him every now and then carrying it up the stairs and it’s dangerous. My daughter just had a baby and they live on top of me. It’s something for everyone to worry about that lives in a building. I am absolutely 100 percent behind any legislation.”

Tracey Deonn Jones,

The Hub

“Electric bikes have become increasingly prominent in recent years due to their comfort and eco-friendliness. However, like any electrical appliance, e-bikes present a threat of fire which can result in serious pain, property damage, or even death. It’s recommended to check for signs of damage or overheating and if it overheats, stop using your bike immediately.”

Stanley Joseph Dean,

Former Wakefield resident now living in Liberia

“Yes, I’m hearing a lot of fires happening from these e-bikes and scooters; it’s scary. The firemen are handling it well, I’m very proud of them.”

Jessica James,

Riverdale native now living in Dallas, TX

“While I am not in favor of over regulation, I do believe that Rep. [Ritchie] Torres’ newly announced bill to mandate federal safety standards for lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and scooters will help to prevent fires and save precious lives. I have enormous respect for Rep. Torres.”

Joanne Russo Rubino,

Pelham Gardens