Lithium-ion battery fires rise across Canada as new rules considered

Lithium-ion battery fires are drawing increased concern across Canada, with Vancouver Fire Rescue Services reporting 20 incidents so far in 2026, Toronto Fire Services reporting 82 and Calgary firefighters responding to 18.

Fire departments say e-bikes and e-scooters are an increasingly common source of serious fires because of their battery size and energy capacity. Battery packs, vapes and other consumer devices have also been involved. A recent residential fire in Medicine Hat was traced to a lithium-ion battery in a solar light.

Health Canada warns that the batteries can overheat, release gases, produce smoke, catch fire, undergo thermal runaway or explode. Vancouver fire officials say incidents often involve damaged or modified batteries, improper charging, or unapproved chargers or components.

Health Canada is considering potential new safety requirements for lithium-ion batteries and consumer products containing them, saying there is broad support for mandatory requirements. E-bikes and e-scooters would not be directly covered because they are vehicles under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act, though some replacement batteries could be.

Fire officials advise residents to use approved batteries and chargers, avoid modifications and extreme heat, and stop using batteries that are swollen, leaking, overheating or emitting unusual odours. Devices should be charged on a hard, flat surface away from combustible materials, not on beds, couches or under pillows.