Published 21 August 2024
Tenants in West Dunbartonshire are being warned against storing mobility scooters in communal entrances, hallways and bin stores as they could pose a fire hazard.
The storage of mobility scooters in these areas was highlighted as a fire safety issue by both the West Dunbartonshire Council Fire Risk Officer and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).
As a result, West Dunbartonshire Council has introduced mobility scooter guidance on how this equipment should be stored and charged and in addition, has amended its tenancy agreement to include information about safe storage.
The advice is being provided to tenants with a class 3 mobility scooter, as these are larger than class 2 scooters and more difficult to keep in individual properties.
The SFRS, under their enforcement powers, already inform residents that they should not store or charge scooters in any common parts of a building as they can be a hazard within escape routes. They also recommend it is good practice for tenants to receive home fire safety visits, which has been incorporated in the Council’s updated guidance.
The Council has already begun working with the small number of tenants who have a class 3 scooter, and updated guidance has been discussed with West Dunbartonshire Tenants and Residents Organisation (WDTRO) and sheltered housing residents.
Storing of equipment in communal areas also applies to electric scooters, e-bikes, bikes, motorcycles and prams.
Convener of Housing and Communities, Councillor Gurpreet Singh Johal, said: “We recognise how important mobility scooters can be in helping people retain their independence, but it is vitally important that these are stored and charged in a responsible way which keep everyone safe at home.
“That is why the guidance has been updated so that this equipment is not at risk of posing a hazard.”
Vice Convener of Housing and Communities, Councillor Hazel Sorrell, said: “The Council will work with tenants on finding an appropriate solution for storing mobility scooters which are essential in ensuring people can continue to get out and about. Tenants can also get a free fire safety visit from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service which will assist them in ensuring they are compliant with the guidance.”
Tenants who have questions on this or any aspect of their tenancy should contact their housing officer.