Toronto Fire issues urgent warning after 3 lithium-ion battery fires in less than 24 hours
· Toronto Sun
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Toronto Fire officials are warning about the dangers of improperly charging lithium-ion batteries for electric bikes after crews were called to three fires in less than a day across the city.
That brings the total number of fires involving lithium batteries to 80 this year as of Wednesday, officials said, adding that these types of blazes are up 40% from this time a year ago.
“Three lithium-ion battery fires in less than 24 hours is a concerning reminder of how quickly these incidents can happen,” Toronto Fire Services said Wednesday morning on Instagram . “Please use, charge and store lithium-ion batteries safely, and only use approved, compatible products.”
The first call firefighters responded to occurred shortly before 10 a.m. Tuesday at Upper Canada Dr., near Bayview Ave. and Hwy. 401, in North York.
Then, at 3:15 p.m., fire crews were called to a home on Broadbridge Dr., near Port Union Rd. and Lawrence Ave. E., in Scarborough.
The third fire occurred shortly before 6 a.m. Wednesday at a building on George St., near Dundas St. E., in Moss Park.
Life-threatening danger
“Three more Lithium Ion Battery fires in less than 24 hours,” Toronto Fire Chief Jim Jessop shared Wednesday on social platform X . “A modified LIB could end your life.”
In total, four people were injured, officials said.
The trio of incidents this week followed two fires involving lithium-ion batteries, including one over the weekend in Scarborough near Danforth Ave. and Danforth Rd.
“This one sent one person to hospital and others having to find another place to live,” Jessop said Monday on X .
The other happened last Wednesday at a building on Islington Rd. near Hwy. 401 in Etobicoke.
“We started today with another lithium-ion battery fire in the early morning hours,” Toronto Fire wrote on Facebook .
Battery warnings
Officials say e-bike users should not overcharge their batteries and should stop using them if there is an odour, a change in colour or shape, too much heat, leaking or a noise.
“The number of lithium-ion battery fires continues to rise in Toronto,” Toronto Fire said Monday on Facebook . “Use certified batteries and chargers, replace damaged batteries, and never charge devices in exits or escape routes. Small steps can help prevent devastating fires.”