Toronto surpasses record for lithium-ion battery fires
Toronto lithium-ion battery fires hit a record 97 in 2026, driven by e-bikes and e-scooters. See why fire officials want tighter safety rules and how to reduce risk.
Toronto has already set a new annual record for lithiumion battery fires, with 97 incidents reported so far in 2026, according to Toronto Fire Services. That exceeds the 91 fires recorded in all of 2025, and the city has four months left in the year.
Fire officials say the rise is tied largely to batteries used in ebikes and escooters, especially when they are overcharged, modified, or damaged. Toronto Fire says 14 injuries have been linked to this year’s incidents.
Fire chiefs are calling for stronger rules on battery storage, safety standards, and imports. They say the fires can spread quickly, create explosions, and leave toxic residue that requires special cleanup. Officials advise people to use certified devices, follow charging instructions, and keep batteries away from flammable materials.