Chief Jim Jessop of Toronto Fire Services issued a public warning on Wednesday after the department responded to two separate lithium‑ion battery fires within a 24‑hour period earlier this week. Both incidents, which occurred in the city of Toronto, were determined to have been caused by the batteries themselves, prompting the fire chief to caution residents about a possible increase in such events.
The two fires, reported on the same day, required the deployment of Toronto firefighters who extinguished the blazes and investigated the origins. Investigators confirmed that the lithium‑ion batteries involved were the primary source of ignition, leading officials to label the incidents as battery‑related. While no further details about the locations or any injuries were released, the back‑to‑back nature of the events was enough for the fire department to issue a city‑wide advisory.
Chief Jessop emphasized that lithium‑ion batteries are commonly used in a variety of consumer electronics and other devices, and that their improper handling, damage, or charging practices can create fire hazards. He urged the public to follow manufacturer instructions when charging devices, to avoid using damaged batteries, and to keep charging equipment away from flammable materials. The fire chief also reminded residents that if a battery begins to overheat, emit smoke, or emit an unusual odor, they should disconnect it from power sources and contact emergency services.
The warning comes as part of a broader effort by Toronto Fire Services to educate the community about fire safety and emerging risks associated with modern technology. By alerting citizens to the potential dangers of lithium‑ion batteries, the department hopes to reduce the likelihood of future incidents and ensure a swift response should similar fires occur again.