Firefighters are expressing concerns over the dangers posed by lithium batteries, which have been causing hot, fast-burning fires that are challenging to extinguish. Incidents involving lithium batteries have been reported in e-bikes at people’s homes, including one in Toronto this week, and in large storage batteries at a solar farm in Prince Edward Island last month.
These safety concerns have prompted bans on electric bikes and cars in certain buildings, public transit, and ferries, impacting individuals who rely on these modes of transportation. Additionally, fears surrounding lithium battery fires have made some individuals hesitant to adopt electric vehicles.
This week marks Fire Prevention Week, with a focus on lithium batteries as the official theme. The rise in lithium battery fires is a growing challenge, prompting efforts to understand the risks and implement measures to mitigate them.
Statistics on lithium battery fires in Canada are not consistently tracked by fire departments, but estimates suggest around 1,500 fires ignited by lithium batteries in various communities across the country last year. The incidents are more prevalent in devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters found in households.
Compared to devices like e-bikes and e-scooters, electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage batteries undergo rigorous testing and possess safety features like temperature sensors and cooling systems. Although specific nationwide data on EV fires in Canada is limited, U.S. data indicates that such incidents are rare compared to fires in traditional gas-powered vehicles.
Lithium battery fires can result from factors like wear and tear, physical damage, or overheating due to improper charging practices. These fires can burn hotter and faster than conventional fires, reaching a state of thermal runaway that accelerates chemical reactions within the battery.
One notable characteristic of lithium battery fires is their ability to self-generate oxygen, sustaining the fire and making traditional firefighting methods ineffective. Additionally, these fires can produce toxic byproducts that pose risks to firefighters and the environment. Lithium battery fires also have the potential to reignite even days or weeks after being extinguished.
Addressing lithium battery fires requires specialized training and equipment for firefighters. Authorities emphasize the importance of using certified batteries with safety features, proper charging practices, and appropriate recycling methods to reduce the risk of incidents.
In the event of a lithium battery fire, firefighting efforts may involve large amounts of water to cool the batteries, but extinguishing the fire entirely may require allowing it to burn out. Experts caution against using water excessively, as it might prolong the fire and lead to environmental contamination.
Efforts are ongoing to enhance safety protocols and raise awareness about lithium battery hazards to prevent future incidents and ensure public safety.