Firefighters are expressing concerns over intense lithium battery fires that are difficult to extinguish, occurring in e-bikes inside homes in Toronto and Peterborough, Ontario, as well as in large storage batteries at a Prince Edward Island solar farm. These incidents have prompted bans on electric bikes and cars in various settings, impacting transportation options for many individuals. The heightened awareness of lithium battery fire risks has also contributed to some people feeling hesitant about adopting electric vehicles.

During Fire Prevention Week, which focuses on lithium batteries this year, the challenges posed by lithium battery fires are being highlighted. The incidents involving these batteries are on the rise, with approximately 1,500 fires attributed to lithium batteries reported across 600 communities in Canada last year, according to estimates from the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs.

While lithium battery fires are more common in devices like e-bikes and e-scooters found in households, incidents involving electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage batteries are relatively rare due to stringent testing and safety measures in place. Despite the lack of nationwide statistics on EV fires in Canada, data from the United States indicates that such fires are significantly less common than those in gas-powered vehicles.

The root causes of lithium battery fires vary, with issues such as wear and tear, physical damage, overcharging, improper charging, and exposure to external heat sources being significant factors. These fires can burn hotter and faster than traditional fires, reaching thermal runaway, which accelerates chemical reactions within the battery and sustains the fire. Lithium battery fires also produce toxic substances and can reignite after being seemingly extinguished, posing challenges for firefighters and emergency responders.

To minimize the risk of lithium battery fires, consumers are advised to purchase certified batteries with proper safety labels and avoid modifying them for enhanced performance. Charging devices correctly on non-combustible surfaces, using appropriate chargers, and recycling damaged batteries at designated drop-off sites are essential safety practices to prevent battery-related fires in homes and communities.