Energize Safely

Fires involving lithium-ion batteries are growing concern in Brampton and the GTA. Lithium-ion batteries are safe when used correctly, but when they fail and ignite, they can cause a fire that can spread quickly out of control into a large fire, posing an immediate risk to people in the area.

Lithium-ion batteries are found in EVs, micro-mobility devices like electric scooters, e-bikes, and hover boards as well as e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, but are also the main power source for cell phones, laptops, tablets, toys, and countless other digital devices.

Lithium-ion batteries provide an effective and efficient source of power, however when damaged or improperly used, charged, or stored, the likelihood of them overheating, catching on fire, and even leading to explosions increases. These types of fires give off toxic gases and burn extremely hot. These gases are hazardous to firefighters and bystanders and can have lasting medical consequences.

Tips to energize safely
- Always use the battery designed for the device.
- Always use the charging cord and power adaptor that came with the device.
- Always follow manufacturers instructions for charging and storing.
- Always keep batteries and devices at room temperature.
- Always store and/or charge batteries away from anything flammable.
- Always keep away from heat sources.
- Never plug into a power strip or overload an outlet.
- Never overcharge, unplug the device when it reaches a 100-per cent charge.
- Never charge the device while sleeping.
- Never charge a battery or device under your pillow, on your bed, or near a couch.
Safe Storage Tips
- Store batteries at room temperature when possible.
- Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.
- Do not place batteries in direct sunlight or leave them in hot vehicles.
- Avoid crushing, bending, or dropping a lithium-ion battery device, charger, or battery-charging station.
- Never store device near your exits.
When to stop using a battery/e-bike/e-scooter
- Unusual odor coming from the battery.
- Change in the colour or the shape of the battery.
- Too much heat
- Not keeping a charge
- Any abnormal amounts of heat coming from the battery.
- Any leaking or noise coming from the battery.
How to safely charge an E-bike
- Always charge your battery in a flat, dry area away from children, direct sunlight, liquids, tripping hazards, and in a location where the e-bike is not at risk of falling.
- Never leave e-bikes or e-scooters unattended while charging.
- Never block your primary way in or out of a room/space.
How to safely charge an Electrical Vehicle (EV) at Home
- All EV charging systems must carry an official mark or label of a recognized Canadian certification or evaluation agency.
- Ensure you have a dedicated circuit to charge your EV to avoid using too much power too quickly form your home.
- Hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor with an ECRA/ESA electrical contracting licence.
- Ask your Licensed Electrical Contractor to file a notification of work with the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) before starting the installation of charging system. Make sure your electrical panel can handle the extra load. If your panel needs an upgrade, contact your local utility.
- If locating your charging system outside, ensure the system is rated for outdoor use.
- Ask your Licensed Electrical Contractor to provide a Certificate of Acceptance once the work is completed and accepted. You home insurance provider may ask you for it.
- Keep charging cable off the floor to avoid a tripping hazard and to maintain the cord life.
- Additional information: ESAsafe.com/EV
- Be aware that battery fires may initially show from under the vehicle.
- EV are quieter than gas cars. Double-check to see if the vehicle is turned off at home, especially when parked in the garage.
Purchasing Tips
- Purchase and use devices, replacement batteries and chargers that meet Canadian Electrical Safety Certification from CSA, cUL or cETL.
- Only purchase products from reputable manufacturers and stores - Most lithium-ion related fire incidents are caused by products that come with poorly made batteries, aftermarket and heavily discounted products or incompatible chargers.
Disposal Tips
- Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash or recycling bin.
- Do not put discarded batteries in piles.
- In the Region of Peel, household hazardous wastes include all types of batteries, take your lithium-ion batteries to one of the Region of Peel's Community Recycling Centres (CRC's) for free, safe disposal.
- If the "+" and "-" ends of the batteries are exposed, place electrical tape over the ends or place each individual battery in a plastic bag before bringing them to your local waste department.
- For Region of Peel Residents – Additional Disposal Tips