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Edmonton Fire Rescue Services reports 22 lithium-ion battery fires in 2026, causing over $2.1 million in damage and one death, as Fire Prevention Week focuses on battery safety.
Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) is highlighting the dangers of lithium-ion batteries during Fire Prevention Week, which began Friday. So far in 2026, fire crews have responded to 22 lithium-ion-battery-related fires that caused more than $2.1 million in property damage and one death. Last year, crews responded to 16 such fires. The campaign, now in its second consecutive year focusing on battery safety, aims to educate the public about the risks associated with batteries that power phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes and e-scooters.
Rising Toll of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
The increase in battery fires is not unique to Edmonton, according to Graham McAlister, deputy fire chief of community safety and risk with EFRS. He said the trend is seen across Canada and North America. Earlier this month, an e-bike battery sparked a townhouse fire that caused $470,000 in property damage. McAlister told reporters Friday at Fire Station No. 6 in Blatchford that the prevalence of mobility devices and the ease of ordering chargers online or from gas stations contribute to the rise. He noted that not all chargers are appropriate for every device.
McAlister said the ongoing education campaign includes working with rental property managers to post signage warning residents about lithium-ion battery hazards. He emphasized that many fires are preventable through proper charging practices and awareness.
Prevention Through Education and Awareness
Justin Lallemand, EFRS assistant deputy chief of fire prevention and investigations, said fire departments across Canada share information and best practices to address the challenges posed by these batteries, which he described as very explosive and very powerful. He noted that this is the second year in a row lithium-ion battery fires have become the focus of Fire Prevention Week. Lallemand said that all across North America, departments are coming together to find new ways to battle these fires, but for Edmonton, prevention through education is key.
As the assistant deputy chief of investigations, Lallemand reads every report and sees a common trend in Edmonton: modified batteries, damaged batteries, and improper charging cords. He stressed that these issues are very preventable and that spreading awareness will reduce the number of crews needed to fight blazes.
Safety Tips for Charging Devices
EFRS provided several lithium-ion battery fire prevention tips. Unplug devices when they reach a full charge. If a battery feels hot, begins to swell, smokes or emits a pungent odour, stop charging it immediately. Use only the original charging cord and block that came with the device, or a manufacturer-approved replacement. Look for recognized safety certification marks such as UL, CSA or ETL.
Use only chargers in good working condition and do not use damaged chargers. Charge devices on hard, flat surfaces away from flammable materials such as beds, couches and carpets. Never charge devices overnight or under pillows. Charge larger items, such as e-bikes and power tools, outdoors whenever possible. Do not charge them in a location that could block an exit.
Edmonton Fire Rescue Services Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Fire Prevention Week Graham Mcalister Justin Lallemand Battery Safety Edmonton
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