Protect Your Family from Battery Fires This Fire Prevention Week

October 8th, 2025  |  Home Insurance

Did you know that the phone in your hand, the e-bike in your garage, or the toy in your child’s room could all carry a fire risk? Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and increasingly common in Canadian households. Unfortunately, when misused or improperly charged, they can overheat or even catch fire. This Fire Prevention Week, “Charge into Fire Safety™” urges families to take simple but important steps to keep homes safe. At Insurance Hunter, we want to help you stay informed and protected.

Be Aware of the Dangers of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Overheating, overcharging, physical damage, or the use of counterfeit chargers are often the cause, and increasing incidents of e-motorbike fires show that the danger is real in our communities. Due to this growing concern, Fire Prevention Week 2025 emphasises three crucial actions for Canadians: Buy Safe, Charge Safe, Recycle Safe.

Be Safe, Be Proactive

• Purchase certified devices and batteries from reputable agencies, such as UL or CSA, and avoid counterfeit products.
• Charge safely by using only manufacturer-approved chargers, placing devices on flat, non-flammable surfaces, unplugging them once fully charged, and never leaving them plugged in overnight.
• Dispose of batteries responsibly at designated recycling or hazardous waste facilities, since tossing them in regular trash can create serious hazards.
• Monitor your devices closely for warning signs such as swelling, overheating, chemical smells, or hissing sounds. If a problem arises, move the device away from flammable materials, take it outside if possible, and call emergency services.

And above all, ensure your home is protected with working smoke alarms on every level, tested monthly to keep your family safe.

Lithium-ion batteries make life easier, but they also demand careful use. By practicing safe charging, purchasing trusted products, and recycling responsibly, Canadian families can protect themselves against a growing fire risk. This Fire Prevention Week, Insurance Hunter encourages you to take action now for a safer tomorrow.