Batteries that are commonly found in e-bikes, smartphones, laptops and many other electronic devices are being blamed for a 162 per cent spike in Toronto fires.

Toronto

Toronto has experienced a sharp rise in fires attributed to lithium-ion batteries, with incidents nearly doubling year over year. Fire officials highlight that these batteries, found in devices like e-bikes and smartphones, can enter a dangerous state called thermal runaway when overheated, making fires difficult to extinguish and producing toxic smoke.

Authorities are urging residents to avoid tampering with batteries, use only certified products, and follow proper charging and disposal practices. Many of the recent fires have been linked to non-certified devices or improper modifications, prompting ongoing public safety campaigns and calls for stricter regulation.

What to know about fire risks around lithium-ion batteries

Lithium ion batteries can burst into uncontrollable fires when they reach a state called thermal runway. That's when devices are overheated and the battery destabilizes. That has Toronto Fire reminding people to be careful. They're almost impossible to put out. That's the problem. And they give off such high levels of heat and flame and toxic smoke, they become very, very difficult to extinguish. So when firefighters are approaching these types of fires, they know they have to do so in a very specific manner. They cannot be put out by water. Fires caused by lithium ion batteries can be cooled, but firefighters essentially have to wait until the battery discharges and self-extinguishes. For the second year, Toronto Fire and the City are launching their annual public safety campaign. Fire services responded to 29 fires caused by lithium ion batteries in 2022. That nearly doubled to 55 in 2023. Last year there were 76 and 2025 is on pace to surpass that with 43 incidents a year to date. Certainly we would like to see more regulation because that does mean higher levels of control. We would like the citizens of Toronto not purchasing devices potentially online if they're cheaper. So we have a UL certification sticker. At this bike store along the Danforth, salespeople are often reminding people to exercise caution, ensuring consumers purchase bikes with batteries that have been thoroughly tested. Some really horrendous things can happen. And it's usually unfortunately caused by a non-UL certified e-bike or an e-bike that is improperly charged or has an issue with it. Lithium ion batteries are generally safe, but can become dangerous if damaged, tampered with, or improperly charged. The City says many of the recent fires were caused by attempts to modify or extend the life of batteries. Some things to look out for include... The battery making a funny hissing sound, if they notice any leaking of smoke or fluids from the battery, if it's changed in shape at all, or been exposed even to high levels of heat. The City is reminding people to not tamper with batteries, keep them in sight while charging, only use certified batteries and dispose of them properly. Dale Minukdak, CBC News, Toronto.

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