E-bike caught on video bursting into flames sparks warning from Toronto Fire
Toronto Fire Services is once again warning residents about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries after an e-bike burst into flames outside a Toronto home.
This comes less than two months after a series of fires reported in one day, all caused by the same type of batteries.
In a video shared by Toronto Fire on July 27, an electric bike parked in a residential driveway suddenly caught fire and quickly became fully engulfed in flames.
The department used the video to remind people that lithium-ion batteries, found in e-bikes, e-scooters and other common devices, can fail without warning. When they do, they enter what's known as "thermal runaway," which is a rapid chain reaction that generates extreme heat, toxic gases and an intense fire that's difficult to extinguish.
Toronto Fire says these incidents are becoming more common and pose serious risks to both the public and first responders. The department is also calling for stronger regulatory controls.
"Consistent manufacturing standards, safe battery certification, responsible repair practices and improved oversight of imported products are critical to reducing the growing number of lithium-ion battery fires and protecting both the public and first responders," the Instagram caption reads.
Over the years, Fire Chief Jim Jessop has called lithium-ion battery fires a "serious public safety concern," noting that they're becoming more frequent and more intense. After an e-bike caught fire on the subway in 2024, the TTC emposed a seasonal ban on them from November to April.
In 2025, Toronto Fire responded to 71 lithium-ion battery fires and says it has already attended about 50 such calls in 2026. At the current pace, the city expects that number to reach around 100 by the end of this year.
It's not just e-bikes and e-scooters that Toronto residents should be concerned about. Lithium-ion batteries can also be found in numerous household items, including smartphones, laptops, e-readers, cordless vacuums, portable fans, and power tools. If not stored properly or charged for too long, they can overheat and catch fire.
The City is advising residents to only use certified, manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers, avoid charging devices unattended, and stop using batteries if they emit a strange odour, become deformed, overheat, or leak.
@torontofireservices
