Lithium-ion battery safety: Small steps that help protect your home

Did you know that many e-bikes, e-scooters, mobility devices, phones, laptops, and power tools use lithium-ion batteries?

These batteries are usually safe. But they can cause a fire if they are broken, charged the wrong way, or used with the wrong equipment.

The good news is that a few simple habits can help keep you, your family, and your neighbor’s safe.

5 Quick Safety Tips

Use the right charger: Always use the charger made for your specific device.
Do not charge overnight: Do not charge batteries while you sleep or when you are not home.
Watch for warning signs: Stop using a battery if it gets very hot, swells, leaks, smokes, or smells strange.
Use safe equipment: Choose batteries, chargers and cords that meet safety rules and that are not broken or damaged.
Keep exits clear: Do not store or charge e-bikes, e-scooters, or batteries in hallways, doorways, or near exits.

Storage of e-bikes, e-scooters, and batteries on balconies is not permitted.

Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the garbage. Take them to a safe recycling place in your area.
Use the City of Ottawa’s Waste Explorer to find a nearby drop-off location for batteries and other household items.

Fire safety is everyone’s job. Small actions can make a big difference.