EFRS issues warning regarding lithium-ion batteries
Posted October 2, 2026 11:34 am.
Last Updated October 3, 2026 9:00 am.
Edmonton Fire Rescue Services is issuing a warning regarding the potential dangers regarding lithium-ion batteries.
EFRS says Lithium-ion batteries power many household devices, including phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, and e-scooters, and when those batteries are damaged, improperly charged, or disposed of in an unsafe manner, they can pose a serious fire risk.
EFRS says that incidents involving lithium-ion batteries are increasing globally, noting that they’ve responded to 22 lithium-ion battery-related fires to date in 2026, resulting in over $2.1 million in property damage.
“We’re seeing firsthand the serious consequences of lithium-ion battery fires in our community and we need to act now. These fires can spread quickly, are difficult to suppress and can be fatal,” said Graeme McAlister, Deputy Fire Chief, Community Safety and Risk.
“How we use these batteries is critical to community safety. We are asking Edmontonians to take these precautions to reduce the risk of a fire to protect our community and the lives of our first responders.”
André Joseph, Director, Sustainable Waste Processing, added, “Proper disposal is an important part of battery safety. If it has a battery, it does not belong in the garbage or recycling. Taking batteries and battery-powered devices to an Eco Station helps prevent fires, protects our collection and processing teams and keeps hazardous materials out of the environment.”
EFRS has issued the following reminders for all Edmontonians:
- Always unplug your device when it reaches full charge. If it feels hot, begins to swell, smokes or emits a pungent odour, stop charging immediately.
- Only use the original charging cord and block that came with your device, or a replacement approved by the manufacturer. Always look for recognized safety certification marks such as UL, CSA or ETL.
- Make sure chargers are in good working condition. Do not use frayed or damaged chargers.
- Charge your device on hard, flat surfaces away from flammable materials like beds, couches or carpets. Never charge devices overnight or under pillows.
- Charge large items, such as e-bikes and power tools, outdoors whenever possible and never charge them in a location that blocks an exit.
- Regardless of size, all batteries and electronic waste (e-waste) pose a serious safety risk if discarded improperly. Never place these items in regular garbage or recycling carts. Improperly discarded batteries can ignite during waste collection and processing, putting staff and facilities at risk.
