(ABC 6 News) — Several people are without a home and one man had to be rescued after a fire at an apartment building in St. Paul.

Fire crews said it was caused by an e-bike that had caught fire in the hallway with the entire third floor hallway battered by black smoke.

A deputy chief says a lithium ion battery, which was used to power the e-bike, combusted likely without warning.

Deputy Chief Smith says you can lessen your risk by buying from reputable brands, but you should never leave them unattended while plugged into a charger.

However, there is a chance it might catch fire regardless, so always keep them outside.