January 16, 2026
Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) reminds Edmontonians about the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries following recent fires. In 2025, EFRS responded to eight fires involving lithium-ion batteries.
From power tools and e-mobility devices to smartphones, laptops, vapes, smoke alarms and toys– if it makes noise, lights up or connects to the Internet, it likely contains an internal battery and needs to be disposed of with caution. If these batteries are damaged, not used correctly or disposed of incorrectly, there is a risk they could catch fire or explode.
“Over the last few years, as lithium-ion batteries become more common, we have seen an increase in fires. This week alone, EFRS responded to two eBike battery fires,” said Assistant Deputy Chief, Justin Lallemand, Fire Prevention & Investigations. “Although less frequent than some of our other leading causes of fires, these lithium-ion fires are extremely dangerous to people and property, and they can cause challenges for our crews who need to put them out.”
While we can’t avoid using lithium-ion batteries, there are ways to prevent these fires, including:
- Not charging devices overnight.
- Only using the correct battery and its specific battery charger and not modifying any equipment.
- Not charging electronic devices longer than necessary.
- Not charging electronic devices in entryways, or where a battery fire might block your exit.
- Not putting lithium-ion batteries or devices with internal batteries in the garbage. These items can cause fires when they go through collection and processing, putting staff and facilities at significant risk.
- Drop them off at an Eco Station or participating retailer for safe, easy recycling at no cost.
If a lithium-ion battery is on fire, it can burn at temperatures greater than 2000°C and can produce high volumes of toxic smoke that can fill a room quickly. They store a tremendous amount of energy, almost three times more than alkaline batteries, and can last for years longer. Even after a lithium-ion battery fire is put out, it may reignite hours or days later.
“Fire moves fast. From the first sign of a problem, you could have less than a minute to escape a battery fire. The best way to be safe is to prevent a fire from starting. Don’t wait, plan ahead. Create and practice a fire escape plan. You need an escape plan no matter what type of building you live in and know at least two ways out of your location,” said Assistant Deputy Chief, Lallemand.
It may be a sign of danger if you notice any of the following with your batteries:
- Odour
- Change in colour
- Change in shape
- Too much heat
- Leaking
- Odd noises
If it is safe to do so, move small devices like cell phones away from anything that could catch fire, call 911 and go outside.
For larger batteries, such as those found in e-mobility devices like e-bikes and e-scooters, leave the building immediately if you hear an explosion or see signs of smoke. Activate the fire alarm and call 911.
