Firefighters are expressing concerns about highly flammable and challenging-to-extinguish fires in lithium batteries used in e-bikes at homes and at a solar farm in Prince Edward Island. The incidents have raised worries leading to bans on electric bikes and cars in certain buildings, public transit, and ferries, affecting individuals dependent on these modes of transportation and causing reluctance in some to adopt electric vehicles.
This week marks Fire Prevention Week, with lithium batteries as the central theme. Understanding the challenges posed by lithium battery fires and methods to mitigate associated risks is crucial.
Fire departments in Canada do not uniformly track lithium battery fires, but estimates from the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs indicate around 1,500 fires ignited by lithium batteries in various communities nationwide last year. The prevalence of such fires is escalating alongside the surge in lithium battery-powered devices, as stated by Paul Boissoneault, the association’s president and Oakville Fire Department chief.
Lithium battery fires predominantly occur in household devices like e-bikes and e-scooters. Contrarily, electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage batteries undergo rigorous testing and incorporate safety features such as temperature sensors and cooling systems. While nationwide data on EV fires in Canada is limited, statistics from the U.S. suggest that EV fires are significantly less common compared to those in gasoline-powered vehicles.
Grid storage battery fires are even scarcer, with only a handful recorded globally, including the incident at the P.E.I. solar farm this year.
The initiation of lithium battery fires can be attributed to the breakdown of the barrier material separating the battery’s terminals, causing a short circuit. Wear, damage, or overheating due to incorrect charging methods can trigger fires. Notably, lithium battery fires burn intensely and swiftly, reaching thermal runaway, a state where chemical reactions accelerate within the battery, leading to a potential explosion. Additionally, these fires generate their oxygen, impeding conventional firefighting methods.
To address lithium battery fire risks, purchasing certified batteries with safety labels, adhering to proper charging protocols, and recycling damaged batteries at designated drop-off sites are recommended preventive measures. Fire experts suggest allowing lithium battery fires to burn out in several cases, as extinguishing them with water can be ineffective and may even prolong the fire’s reignition potential.
By adopting safety practices and understanding the unique dangers posed by lithium battery fires, individuals can contribute to reducing the likelihood and severity of such incidents.