Prevent battery fires in your home and in our community
Lithium-ion batteries, also known as li-ion batteries, are found in many rechargeable devices throughout our homes. They weigh less and last longer than other batteries, however they can be more easily damaged and pose a greater fire risk.
In Ottawa, we’re seeing more battery-related fires every year. Safely charging and disposing of lithium-ion batteries helps prevent fires in our homes and reduces risks of fires in waste collection trucks and landfill facilities.
Charging tips
Use and recharge lithium-ion batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Stored lithium-ion batteries should be inspected regularly and kept at a 50 per cent charge.
Safely charge your batteries by:
Using the charger that came with your device. If you are using a third-party charger, ensure the voltage and current are compatible and it has a recognized Canadian certification mark: CSA, ULC, or cETL.
Charging on a hard, flat surface away from heat sources.
Removing the charger from the battery once it is fully charged.
Charging items away from doorways and other exits – these are your escape routes in case of a fire and they should always be kept clear.
Ensuring they cannot be reached by children and pets.
For more information on safely charging lithium-ion batteries, visit Charged for life.
Smoking and damaged batteries
If the battery starts to spark or smoke, immediately evacuate the building. Do not try to put out a battery fire yourself. Follow your home’s fire escape plan and call 9-1-1.
If the battery is swollen, leaking or has an unusual smell – stop using the battery and follow the disposal guidelines below.
Disposal guidelines
Never throw batteries into the garbage or down a garbage chute.
When lithium-ion batteries are disposed of improperly, they can become damaged and ignite, causing fires in waste collection trucks, waste processing facilities and landfills.
Safely dispose of old or damaged batteries by:
Searching the City’s Waste Explorer or Recycle your batteries, Canada! to find drop-off locations near you.
Before bringing batteries to a drop-off location, protect the metal contact points of the battery, also known as terminals, by covering them with electrical tape or placing the battery in a clear plastic bag. This prevents any leftover energy in the battery from causing a short circuit, which could start a fire.
For more information on safely disposing of lithium-ion batteries, visit the Batteries section of our Hazardous waste, electronic waste and special items page.
Visit Ottawa Fire Services’ Fire safety, prevention and education page for more information on protecting your home from fire. You can also follow along on a home inspection with fire prevention officers on a recent episode of OttaTalk.