Lithium-ion batteries, which power devices such as e-bikes, e-scooters, phones, and laptops, are being blamed for a growing number of fires across Canada this year.
Fire departments in cities including Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary are warning residents about the rising risks and urging federal officials to consider tougher safety rules for the rechargeable technology.
According to the Vancouver Fire Rescue Services, they have responded to 20 lithium-ion battery fires so far in 2026.
Toronto Fire Services has reported 82 incidents involving the batteries this year, with the latest figures suggesting a battery bursts into flames every three days.
In Calgary, firefighters have dealt with 18 battery-related fires, including three in a single 24-hour period last week.
They are an increasingly common source of serious fires, given the size and energy capacity of their battery.
Consumer devices such as battery packs and vapes are also common sources of lithium-ion fire incidents.
In Medicine Hat, Alta., a recent residential fire was caused by a lithium-ion battery found in something as innocent as a solar light.
These batteries can store large amounts of energy, are lightweight, powerful, and can be recharged repeatedly, making them common in everything from power tools and portable power banks to baby monitors and toys.
One of the biggest concerns is what firefighters call “thermal runaway,” when a battery cell rapidly heats up and triggers further heating inside the battery.
Health Canada says lithium-ion batteries can present hazards including overheating, off-gassing, smoke, fire, thermal runaway, and explosion.
The Vancouver Fire Rescue Services says it is seeing battery fires involving a range of products, with incidents frequently involving e-bikes; these fires are caused by batteries that have been damaged, improperly charged, modified, or paired with non-approved chargers or components.
The growing number of fires in 2026 has also caught the attention of federal regulators.
Fire departments are urging Canadians to take precautions when using and charging items with lithium-ion batteries.
Residents should use the battery and charger approved for their device, avoid modifying batteries, keep them away from extreme heat, and don’t use batteries that show signs of damage, swelling, leaking, overheating or unusual odours.
Fire officials also warn individuals against charging an e-bike, e-scooter or other battery-powered device on a bed, couch or under a pillow.
Instead, look for a hard, flat surface away from anything that can catch fire.
Visit the Government of Canada’s website for more information on lithium-ion battery safety.
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