Residents in the East of England will be safer after more than 1,800 potentially dangerous batteries and chargers were removed from sale thanks to a regional campaign by Trading Standards services from nine local authorities.

The work was carried out after fire and rescue services in the eastern region reported an increase in the number of fires involving lithium-ion batteries and battery chargers. These batteries are found in a large number of household devices, including laptops, mobile phones, vacuum cleaners and cordless power tools and can pose a serious fire risk.

The campaign saw Trading Standards teams from across the East of England purchase and test 22 items, primarily from online marketplaces. All failed to provide the legally required safety information, while 13 posed serious safety risks, including the potential for electric shock, fire, and explosion.

Central Bedfordshire Trading Standards Team took further action by seizing 89 unsafe e-bike batteries and 169 hazardous Christmas tree lights from a local warehouse. These products were identified as serious fire hazards and have been removed from circulation to protect consumers.

Councillor John Baker, Executive Member for Public Protection at the Council, emphasised the importance of the campaign, stating:

The safety of our residents is our top priority. The rise in fires linked to substandard batteries and chargers is deeply concerning, and this campaign highlights the critical role our Trading Standards Team plays in preventing dangerous products from reaching consumers. We will continue to take firm action against unsafe goods to ensure people are protected.