Fire officials across Canada are warning the public after a series of fires involving lithium-ion batteries in e-scooters and e-bikes this month.
These incidents highlight a growing public safety risk as micro-mobility devices become more common in urban areas. Malfunctioning batteries can lead to rapid, intense fires that are difficult to extinguish in residential settings.
In Calgary, Alberta, emergency crews responded to three lithium-ion battery fires within a single 24-hour period [1]. These incidents have prompted local authorities to urge residents to exercise caution when charging and storing their devices.
Similar patterns have emerged in Ontario. Toronto reported two recent fires involving lithium-ion batteries [2], leading the city's fire chief to warn of a surge in these types of incidents.
Experts said the risks are tied to how these batteries function. Lithium-ion cells can overheat, short-circuit, or suffer physical damage, which can trigger a chemical reaction leading to fire [3]. This risk increases when batteries are stored improperly or used in devices with substandard components.
Officials said that improper charging habits often contribute to the danger. Using non-certified chargers or leaving devices plugged in indefinitely can lead to overheating, a primary cause of battery failure [3].
Fire departments in both Calgary and Toronto are emphasizing the need for safer storage. They recommend charging devices in open areas away from flammable materials, and avoiding charging overnight when no one is awake to monitor the device [1], [2].
“Lithium-ion cells can overheat, short-circuit, or suffer physical damage, which can trigger a chemical reaction leading to fire.”
The cluster of fires in major Canadian cities suggests a systemic issue with battery quality and consumer charging habits. As the adoption of e-bikes and e-scooters grows, the lack of standardized safety regulations for third-party batteries and chargers creates a persistent urban fire hazard that exceeds the capacity of traditional home safety measures.
