Date: July 29, 2026
By Kimberly Wilson
TORONTO, Ontario — Toronto Fire Chief Jim Jessop has described lithium-ion battery fires as the "greatest public safety risk" facing the city, warning that the number of incidents has surged dramatically over the past three years as the popularity of e-bikes, e-scooters, and other battery-powered devices continues to grow.
Speaking before Toronto City Council while presenting the department's 2025 annual report, Jessop said firefighters have already responded to 50 lithium-ion battery-related fires in 2026, while the number of such incidents has increased by 214 per cent over the last three years. He said the trend is placing increasing demands on emergency responders and poses a serious threat to public safety.
The fire chief warned that lithium-ion battery fires behave very differently from conventional fires. Once damaged or overheated, the batteries can enter a condition known as thermal runaway, causing intense heat, toxic smoke, explosions, and repeated re-ignition even after flames appear to have been extinguished.
Jessop said many recent incidents have involved off-market, modified, damaged, or improperly charged batteries, particularly those used in electric bicycles and electric scooters. He urged consumers to purchase batteries and chargers from reputable manufacturers and avoid using incompatible charging equipment.
His warning comes just days after Toronto Fire Services released dramatic video footage showing an e-bike battery exploding outside a home, sending burning battery cells flying across a driveway. Fire officials used the footage to remind residents of the dangers associated with damaged or improperly maintained lithium-ion batteries.
Jessop renewed calls for the federal government to introduce mandatory national safety standards governing lithium-ion batteries and charging equipment. He argued that stronger regulations would help reduce the number of unsafe products entering the Canadian market and improve public safety. Toronto Fire Services is also encouraging residents to follow basic battery safety practices, including avoiding overcharging, using only manufacturer-approved chargers, keeping batteries away from heat sources, and never charging them on beds, sofas, or other flammable surfaces. Officials also advise replacing damaged batteries immediately and disposing of them through approved hazardous waste programs rather than placing them in household garbage.
The growing concern has already prompted policy discussions in Toronto. In recent years, transit officials have considered restrictions on e-bikes and e-scooters because of the fire risks posed by lithium-ion batteries, particularly in enclosed public spaces.
Fire officials stressed that lithium-ion batteries remain safe when manufactured, used, and maintained properly. However, as battery-powered devices become increasingly common, they say greater public awareness, stronger product standards, and safer charging practices will be essential to reducing the risk of future fires.