Lithium-ion battery fires are becoming more common, prompting a need for more awareness.
Fire Prevention Week is underway. The 2026 theme is: Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.
Moncton Fire Chief Conrad Landry says rechargeable batteries are used found in cell phones, e-bikes, and power tools in the garage, but they also come with risks people need to keep in mind.
Landry says the growing popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters is putting even more of these powerful batteries into homes across the community.
“They are a lot more powerful and hold a lot more energy. Because they’re being used more often, there are more of them out there that could malfunction.”
He cautions against using incompatible replacement chargers or batteries and recommends sticking with equipment intended or recommended for your device.
“For those who plug their cellphone in before going to bed, overnight charging isn’t necessarily the problem. But leaving the phone buried in bedding or covered by blankets is where things can become dangerous because heat can’t easily escape,” Landry explained.
The National Fire Protection Association recommends charging devices on a hard, flat surface such as a table, desk or bare floor.
“Try to be conscious that there’s no combustible material around the battery when you charge it,” Landry said.
It’s also recommended you watch for warning signs.
“If a battery becomes extremely hot or starts giving off an unusual smell, something could be wrong,” Landry stressed.
The NFPA also recommends stopping use of a device if it swells, leaks, smokes or makes popping or hissing noises, because a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery can lead to a serious fire.
“When one fails violently, an explosion can spread burning material beyond where the device was sitting,” Landry stressed.
He added that lithium-ion batteries are encouraged because they are better for the environment, but it’s important they’re used, cared for, and disposed of safely and correctly.
Fire Prevention Week runs until October 10.
Moncton and Riverview Fire Departments recently held open houses at their fire stations. Dieppe will hold one on Saturday, October 10, at the Gauvin Road Fire Station from 10 am until 2 pm.
