January 2025
Use of e-bikes, scooters and hoverboards powered by lithium-ion batteries is on the rise, along with fires resulting from the improper use, charging and storage of their batteries.
Fires from lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of power in a small package, are on the rise nationwide. When involved in a fire, they burn extremely hot, release toxic gases, and reignite even after a fire has been extinguished. Most electronic devices require them from electric vehicles and smaller mobility devices to laptops and cell phones.
High-rise buildings are at greater risk because of the large number or lithium-ion batteries under one roof. Rules regulating their storage and charging are difficult to enforce.
It is not practical to prohibit storage and charging of lithium-ion batteries within units in a high-rise building. Residents would likely ignore this since it would prevent them from using the many devices that require them including not only electronic devices but scooters, hoverboards and other mobility devices. Enforcement would be next to impossible.
Lithium-ion batteries fail quickly and release far more energy than other combustible household items. They have a high energy density and can be dangerous, particularly if used incorrectly or are tampered with. Fires started by them present unique challenges to firefighters.
Most lithium-ion batteries are safe. They are certified and have a safety feature to prevent overheating and malfunctions. This includes most smartphones and smaller electronic devices. The problem is with faulty or improperly manufactured batteries that are causing these dangerous and deadly fires.
New York City had more than 200 lithium-ion battery fires in 2022. The problem, according to local police, is that “faulty and illegal devices are making their way into our homes and streets, causing fires and putting lives at risk”. Safe storage of such devices is a problem. Their smaller batteries are less regulated and operated by consumers with little or no understanding of the risks. Larger batteries of this type are heavily regulated and operated by professionals.
Toronto Fire responded to 29 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries in 2022. The number of these fires increased to 55 in 2023. Most of these fires were from batteries powering e-bikes and e-scooters including those in condominium buildings and on the TTC. This danger has prompted Metrolinx to ban e-bikes with uncertified batteries from GO and TTC trains.
- Batteries in mobility devices can be damaged from crashes and normal use, and should be repaired by a professional or immediately replaced. Any changes to how the battery or device functions, visible damage, unusual odour or change in colour, excessive heat, change in shape, leaking, smoking or not retaining a charge are indications the battery needs to be repaired or replaced. They should not be disposed of with regular trash or recycling.
- Lithium-ion batteries should be charged by plugging them directly into a wall electrical outlet. Never use an extension cord, power strip or an overloaded outlet.
- Keep batteries and devices at room temperature.
- When charging, keep them away from heat sources and anything flammable including pillows, beds and couches. Never leave batteries unattended while they are charging.
- Never overcharge a battery or leave one charging overnight.
- Never block your primary means of escape from a room.
