Toronto’s fire chief announced Thursday that lithium‑ion battery fires have risen sharply, with a 45 percent increase over the same period last year. The surge involves consumer gadgets, EV chargers and power banks, prompting a city‑wide safety campaign and new regulatory proposals.

45% Rise in Lithium‑Ion Fires Prompts Emergency Alert

Chief Matthew Valente told reporters that fire crews responded to an unprecedented number of battery‑related blazes, many of which stemmed from damaged cells or cheap, unregulated chargers. He explained that a failed cell can enter thermal runaway within seconds, spewing heat and flammable gases that threaten occupants and firefighters alike. According to the fire department’s data,several incidents caused major property loss and two serious injuries when residents tried to put out the flames themselves.

New City Campaign Targets Safe Charging Practices

Toronto Fire Services launched a bilingual public‑awareness drive that includes flyers, social‑media videos and commnity workshops. The materials stress using manufacturer‑approved adapters, avoiding overnight charging and keeping batteries away from heat sources. Residents are also urged to inspect devices for swelling, discoloration or odd odors and to replace compromised batteries immediately.

Provincial Legislation Could Mandate Battery Safety Certifications

City officials are working with Ontario regulators on a proposal that would require safety certifications for all lithium‑ion batteries sold in the province and establish a mandatory recall protocol for defective batches . Valente also called on retailers to add clear safety labels and stock fire‑resistant storage bags for customers transporting spare cells.

Firefighters Get Specialized Gear to Combat Battery Fires

The fire department has upgraded its arsenal with extinguishing agents designed for the high‑temperature flames of battery fires and provided extra training on toxic fumes and re‑ignition risks.. This equipment upgrade aims to protect first responders and limit fire spread in homes and public venues .

Who Is Still Unaccounted for in the Safety Push?

While the city’s initiatives addess consumer behvior and retailer responsibility, the source does not detail how manufacturers of imported electronics will be held accountable, nor does it specify enforcement timelines for the proposed legislation. these gaps leave open questions about the effectiveness of the overall strategy.