Lithium-ion battery fires are increasing across Canada, exposing fire fighters to more dangerous conditions and new on-the-job risks – and driving a national push for action.
In July 2025, a British Columbia man captured a video of his e-bike erupting flames shortly after taking it for a routine ride, one of many incidents tied to lithium-ion batteries used in vehicles and everyday electronics. These fires burn hotter and behave unpredictably on the fireground, creating new risks for fire fighters.
The growing threat has prompted Vancouver BC Local 18 President Katrina Davison to call for a national strategy that includes better tracking and regulation of the now-ubiquitous power sources.
The issue is being added to the IAFF’s legislative agenda for the 33rd Canadian Legislative Conference, April 19-21 in Ottawa.
“This initiative would improve fire fighter safety during lithium battery fire incidents, support evidence-based firefighter health protections, enhance Canada’s preparedness for emerging fire risks and ensure the safe integration of electrification technologies into communities across the country,” Davison said. “These outcomes would collectively strengthen both the fire service and the public it serves.”
Data from Vancouver Fire Rescue Services shows rechargeable battery fires nearly doubled between 2021 and 2024, rising from 29 to 53 incidents.
Other major cities are reporting similar trends. Toronto Fire Services recorded a 591% increase between 2020 and 2024, while the Montreal Fire Service reported a 195% rise since it began tracking incidents in 2022.
This initiative would improve fire fighter safety during lithium battery fire incidents, support evidence-based firefighter health protections, enhance Canada’s preparedness for emerging fire risks and ensure the safe integration of electrification technologies into communities across the country.
vancouver local 18 president katrina davison
Unauthorized modifications, overcharging, improper disposal and physical damage greatly elevates the risk of thermal runaway – a dangerous chain reaction within the battery that leads to fire or explosion.
Davison said these fires expose fire fighters and other emergency responders to toxic gases and raise questions about training standards, protective equipment, and whether building codes reflect the growing presence of lithium-ion devices in homes and multi-unit residential buildings.
At the IAFF’s Canadian Legislative Conference, delegates will call on the federal government to establish a National Lithium-ion Battery Fire Fighter Safety Initiative – a coordinated program to track incidents, research fire fighter exposures, standardize training, update building codes, and fund protective equipment and technology.
Delegates will also lobby for indexing the Memorial Grant Program for First Responders and strengthening the regulations that govern airport rescue and firefighting in Canada.
