The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) responded to three separate fires involving lithium-ion batteries across the city within a single 24-hour period, prompting fire officials to issue a urgent warning regarding safe charging and disposal practices.
3 Incidents in 24 Hours
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Thursday, Aug. 6 (9:25 a.m.) – Covercreek Mews N.E.: Crews responded to a two-story residential home with a front attached garage after smoke staining was spotted on the garage door. Upon entering through the home’s interior access door, firefighters encountered thick, dark smoke. A ventilation fan was set up to clear the garage, and no fire damage spread to the living area. Emergency Medical Services (AHS) assessed one occupant for smoke inhalation, with no other injuries reported. A fire investigator seized three electric scooters from the garage, determining the fire originated from one of the scooters while all three were charging simultaneously.
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Friday, Aug. 7 (3:35 a.m.) – 6600 Block of 106 Avenue S.E.: Firefighters were dispatched to a commercial warehouse after an active alarm system triggered an evacuation. Crews located a fire inside an exterior compactor and knocked it down using a handheld fire extinguisher. Staff reported seeing a glow from boxes right before the fire broke out and noted past incidents caused by batteries left inside discarded packaging. The fire investigator confirmed a lithium-ion battery in the compactor as the likely cause.
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Friday, Aug. 7 (3:50 a.m.) – Saddlemont Close N.E.: Shortly after the warehouse call, crews responded to a two-story home where smoke was pouring from a side basement door. All residents had evacuated safely. Firefighters ran a hose line into the low-visibility basement, quickly extinguishing the flames and containing the damage to the basement suite. Crews also rescued a cat from another section of the home and returned it to its owners. An investigator traced the fire’s origin back to a plugged-in electric scooter. No injuries were reported.
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Reminders
To reduce the risk of electrical fires, the Calgary Fire Department reminds residents to follow these charging and handling guidelines:
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Unplug When Full: Disconnect devices once they reach 100% capacity to prevent overcharging.
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Never Charge Unattended: Do not leave charging devices or e-scooters unattended or overnight.
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Inspect for Damage: Avoid charging batteries showing signs of swelling, overheating, leakage, or physical damage.
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Use Approved Gear: Follow manufacturer instructions and use only original or compatible charging cables and adapters.
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Dispose Safely: Never toss lithium-ion batteries into standard blue, black, or green municipal bins. Use official hazard disposal sites instead.
For additional fire prevention resources, visit calgary.ca/fire.