General Safety Infomation & Lithium-Ion Battery Policy

Your safety and product reliability are of the highest importance to Trail Surge UK.
This policy outlines crucial guidance for the safe use, handling, storage, and maintenance of electric bikes and electric scooters, as well as their lithium-ion batteries.

Please read this document carefully before using your product.
Failure to follow these safety instructions may result in damage, injury, or voided warranty coverage.

1. Introduction

This policy has been created to help you:

• Understand how to safely use, charge, and store your electric bike or electric scooter.
• Handle lithium-ion batteries correctly to prevent damage, overheating, or fire.
• Perform regular safety checks and maintenance.
• Know what to do in case of an emergency.

All customers purchasing from Trail Surge UK are expected to follow these guidelines as part of responsible ownership.

2. Safety Disclaimer

Trail Surge UK is a retailer, not a manufacturer, of electric bikes and electric scooters.
All products we supply are tested and certified (CE compliant) to meet UK standards.

However, lithium-ion batteries and electric transport systems inherently carry potential risks if mishandled, modified, damaged, or neglected.
These may include overheating, smoke, or thermal runaway leading to fire.

Riding electric vehicles also carries natural risks—especially at speed, in traffic, or on uneven terrain.
Safe operation, responsible use, and regular maintenance are the owner’s responsibility.

Trail Surge UK cannot be held liable for:

• Damage or injury caused by misuse, unauthorised modifications, or poor maintenance.
• Accidents arising from unsafe riding practices.
• Battery failures caused by water damage, overcharging, or neglect.

This disclaimer does not affect your statutory rights.

3. General Operating Safety

To ensure safe and responsible use of electric bikes and electric scooters:

• Always wear an approved helmet and full protective gear (including gloves, sturdy footwear, and elbow and knee protection).
• Follow UK traffic laws and local regulations regarding electric vehicles.
• Check brakes, tyres, lights, and bolts before every ride.
• Avoid using your product in wet, icy, or slippery conditions that could affect grip and braking.
• Ride defensively — stay alert for pedestrians, vehicles, and uneven terrain.
• Never exceed speed limits or modify performance settings.
• Do not allow underage or inexperienced riders to use electric bikes or scooters unsupervised.
• Avoid overloading your electric bike or carrying passengers if not designed for it.
• Always switch off power when not riding.

4. Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Overview

Lithium-ion batteries are efficient, high-capacity energy sources, but they are also sensitive to misuse.
Incorrect handling, charging, or storage can lead to overheating or, in extreme cases, fire.

Batteries must be handled with care to maintain performance and safety throughout their lifespan.

5. Charging Safety

• Always use the original charger supplied with your electric bike or scooter, or one approved by the manufacturer.
• Charge only when you are awake and present — never leave charging unattended or overnight.
• Charge in a well-ventilated area away from flammable materials (such as carpets, curtains, or furniture).
• Place the charger and battery on a hard, non-flammable surface, such as concrete or tiles.
• Do not charge immediately after a long ride — allow the battery to cool for 30–60 minutes before connecting.
• Unplug once fully charged — do not overcharge.
• Do not use damaged chargers or cables.
• Avoid charging in confined spaces, communal areas, escape routes, or hallways.
• Keep the charging area free from clutter and ensure smoke or heat alarms are installed nearby.

6. Battery Handling and Care

• Handle batteries gently — never drop, crush, puncture, or disassemble.
• Keep terminals clean and dry.
• Inspect for swelling, leaks, or physical damage before every use.
• Do not expose batteries to direct sunlight or high heat (above 45°C).
• Do not immerse in water or allow moisture to enter the battery housing.
• If the battery becomes unusually hot, emits a strong odour, or makes popping sounds, disconnect immediately and move it to a safe, open area.
• Never attempt to repair or open the battery casing.
• Use only approved accessories and components with your electric bike or scooter.

7. Storage Safety

Short-Term Storage

• Store the product and battery in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.
• Maintain temperatures between 15°C and 25°C for best battery health.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not store near combustible materials.

Long-Term Storage

• Charge the battery to 40–60% before storage.
• Recharge every 2–3 months to prevent deep discharge.
• Never store a fully depleted battery — this can cause permanent damage.
• Avoid freezing conditions (below -10°C) or extreme heat (above 45°C).
• Do not store in uninsulated sheds, attics, or basements with high humidity.
• Ensure the storage area is ventilated and away from escape routes or communal spaces.

8. Riding in Different Conditions

• Wet Weather: Avoid deep puddles, heavy rain, or flooding. Water ingress can cause short circuits or corrosion.
• Cold Weather: Performance and range may drop. Allow the battery to reach room temperature before charging.
• Hot Weather: Store and charge batteries in shaded, ventilated spaces. Overheating can reduce lifespan.
• Rough Terrain: Excessive vibration can damage electrical connections — check components regularly.

9. Maintenance and Inspection

Regular inspection keeps your electric bike or scooter safe and reliable:

• Check brakes, tyres, cables, and bolts before each ride.
• Clean the bike or scooter regularly using a damp cloth — never use a pressure washer or immerse in water.
• Have your electric bike or scooter serviced by a qualified technician at least once every six months.
• Inspect the battery monthly for swelling, corrosion, or leaks.
• Replace the battery immediately if it shows any signs of damage or abnormal performance.

Never modify electrical systems or use unofficial software or components. Doing so can cause safety hazards and void your warranty.

10. Transporting Batteries and Electric Vehicles

• Turn off the power and disconnect the battery before transport.
• Secure the vehicle to prevent movement or impact during travel.
• Never transport damaged or leaking batteries.
• When travelling by air, check airline and cargo regulations — most prohibit lithium-ion batteries above certain capacities.
• When shipping batteries, declare them as Dangerous Goods (UN3480) and follow courier guidelines.

11. Emergency Procedures

If you suspect a battery fault or overheating:

1. Move the electric bike or scooter to an open, safe area away from flammable objects.
2. Do not handle or move a smoking or leaking battery.
3. If smoke or flames appear, evacuate the area immediately and call 999.
4. Use a Class D or lithium-specific fire extinguisher only if it is safe to do so.
5. Do not use water to extinguish a lithium fire.
6. If battery fluid contacts skin or eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical assistance.

12. Disposal and Environmental Responsibility

• Never place batteries in household waste or recycling bins.
• Use authorised battery recycling centres or manufacturer take-back programs.
• Contact your local authority for disposal locations.
• Do not incinerate, crush, or burn lithium-ion batteries.
• Help protect the environment by disposing of all components responsibly.

13. Warranty and Exclusions

All Trail Surge UK products include a 1-year manufacturer warranty, including coverage for the battery under normal use.

The warranty does not cover:

• Water or impact damage.
• Misuse, neglect, or unauthorised modifications.
• Charging with incorrect or third-party chargers.
• Damage from improper storage or non-compliance with this policy.

For warranty claims, contact help@trailsurge.co.uk with proof of purchase and a full description of the issue.

14. Customer Responsibilities

You are responsible for:

• Following all safety and charging guidelines.
• Keeping your electric bike or scooter properly maintained.
• Using only approved chargers and accessories.
• Complying with UK laws regarding electric vehicle use and battery disposal.
• Reporting any safety concerns or product faults immediately.

15. Limitation of Liability

Trail Surge UK will not be liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from misuse, neglect, unauthorised modifications, or failure to follow this safety policy.
Lithium-ion batteries and electric transport systems carry inherent risks if used incorrectly.
Nothing in this policy affects your statutory rights.

16. Contact Information

For assistance, safety advice, or to report an issue, please contact:

Trail Surge UK
📧 Email: help@trailsurge.co.uk
🌐 Website: www.trailsurge.co.uk

17. Policy Updates

Trail Surge UK reserves the right to update this policy at any time without prior notice.
The latest version will always be available on our website.
Customers are encouraged to review it regularly to stay informed of the most current safety practices.