Battery fire prevention: What to know about lithium-ion batteries

MFES has identified lithium-ion batteries as the city’s fastest-growing ignition source, recording a 122 per cent increase in lithium-ion battery-related fires in 2025 compared to the previous year. MFES responded to 20 incidents involving lithium-ion batteries in 2025 and has already responded to 15 incidents this year.

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day, from cell phones and laptops to e-bikes and power tools. While these batteries are generally safe when used as intended, damaged, defective or improperly charged batteries can pose a serious fire risk. In some cases, damaged batteries can experience “thermal runaway,” a chain reaction that can cause intense heat, fire, toxic gases and, in some cases, explosions.

This makes understanding how to safely use, charge and store these devices even more important, as it can help reduce the risk of fire.

Take charge of battery safety

As the use of battery-powered devices continues to grow, MFES is encouraging residents to follow safe charging, storage and disposal practices to help prevent fires.

To reduce the risk of a fire:

• Only purchase products, replacement batteries and chargers from reputable manufacturers. Avoid aftermarket, modified or counterfit battery components that may lack important safety protections.
• Never modify, tamper with or attempt to repair batteries yourself.
• Charge batteries on a hard, non-combustible surface, away from beds, couches, carpets and other combustible materials.
• Never charge e-bikes, e-scooters or large battery packs near doorways, hallways or other exits.
• Avoid charging devices overnight or close to where you sleep, as they can overheat and could catch fire.
• If you notice a battery is swollen, bulging, overheating or behaving abnormally, stop using it immediately.
• Keep batteries away from extreme heat and direct sunlight.

Stop using the battery or device immediately if you notice signs of failure, such as swelling, unusual odours, excessive heat, discolouration, leaking fluids, smoke, vapour or strange noises. If a battery catches fire, move away from it and call 911.

To help stay safe, MFES is encouraging residents to remember the C.H.A.R.G.E. acronym:

• C – Choose certified products
• H – Handle with care
• A – Always be alert for warning signs
• R – Recycle batteries responsibly
• G – Get out quickly
• E – Educate others about battery safety

Protect your home from fire risks

Most house fires are preventable with the help of basic fire safety tips. Residents are encouraged to:

• Test smoke alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed.
• Make sure every level of your home has a carbon monoxide detector.
• Create and practise a home fire escape plan with all members of the household.
• Keep exits clear and know two ways out of every room whenever possible.
• Never leave kitchen appliances unattended while in use.
• Keep flammable items at least one metre away from space heaters and other heat sources.
• Keep matches, lighters and other ignition sources away from children.

While smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors provide critical early warning, fire safety begins with prevention. Taking steps to identify hazards and create safer habits at home can significantly reduce the risk of a fire.

Every second counts

During emergency situations, it’s important to move quickly but not panic. Having a fire escape plan and knowing what to do can make it easier to take action quickly. In the event of a fire:

• Get everyone away from the fire and out of the home immediately.
• Stay outside and do not go back into the building under any circumstances.
• Call 911 from a safe location.

Working smoke alarms and a practiced escape plan can provide the critical seconds needed to escape safely.

For more information about lithium-ion battery safety, fire prevention and emergency planning, visit mississauga.ca/fire.

Tags

• Fire and Emergency Services
• Public Safety