Toronto Fire Services has confirmed that the city experienced 97 lithium‑ion battery fires so far in 2026, the highest annual total on record. The figure, supplied by Capt. Deepak Chagger of the fire department, exceeds the 91 incidents logged in the previous year, 2025.
The department’s ongoing tracking program counts each fire that originates from a lithium‑ion battery, regardless of the setting or device involved. The tally of 97 incidents reflects the cumulative count for the calendar year to date, indicating a modest increase over the prior year’s total.
Capt. Chagger noted that the data collection effort provides a clear picture of how often these battery‑related events occur across the city. The rise from 91 to 97 incidents represents a growth of six cases, or roughly a 6.6 percent increase compared with the previous year’s count.
City officials use the fire service’s statistics to monitor trends and to inform safety recommendations for consumers and businesses handling lithium‑ion powered equipment. The record‑setting number underscores the importance of continued public awareness about proper battery handling and storage.
While the report does not break down the locations or causes of each fire, the consistent tracking by Toronto Fire Services ensures that the city maintains an up‑to‑date record of lithium‑ion battery incidents. The department will continue to compile data throughout the remainder of 2026, with the aim of identifying any emerging patterns that may influence future safety guidance.
The new high of 97 battery fires adds to the city’s safety data set and will be compared with future yearly totals to assess whether the upward trend persists or stabilizes in the coming years.