Trusted Fire & Safety

03/31/2026

Stay Safe!

Scary situation yesterday as our crews responded to a fire caused by a cell phone that was charging on a bed. Thankfully, the fire was contained quickly.

Incidents like this unfortunately aren’t unique - fire departments across the Province are seeing a rise in fires involving lithium‑ion batteries, which power everything from phones and tablets to e‑bikes and tools.

This is a good moment to revisit a few simple safety reminders:

🔋 Charge Smart
- Avoid charging on beds, couches, or under pillows. Soft surfaces trap heat and increase the risk of overheating.
- Unplug devices once they’re fully charged.

✔️ Use Certified Equipment
- Stick to manufacturer‑approved chargers and batteries.
- Be cautious of off‑brand or counterfeit charging cords and adapters.

🛠️ Don’t Modify or Repair Batteries
- Lithium‑ion batteries should never be tampered with.
- If a device or battery is damaged, have it inspected or replaced by a qualified professional.

🗑️ Dispose of Batteries Properly
- Never throw lithium‑ion batteries in the garbage.
- Take them to a proper household hazardous waste drop‑off location.

🔥 Be Prepared
- Ensure you have working smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas.
- If a fire starts, get out, stay out, and call 9‑1‑1.

Lithium‑ion batteries are safe when used properly - and a few small habits can make a big difference. Learn more at ChargedForLife.ca.

03/23/2026

Stay Safe!

Baking something sweet this March Break? Never leave food cooking unattended. Stay in the kitchen while baking or cooking to help prevent a fire.

02/18/2026

Stay Safe!

Today is , a good reminder to charge lithium-ion battery devices on a hard surface and never on a bed, couch, or under a pillow.

Once it reaches 100%, unplug and move on. Don’t overcharge.

For more battery safety tips, go to: fpw.org

02/01/2026

Stay safe!

February 1 – 7 is National Burn Awareness Week. The OAFC is pleased to share the following information on behalf of the Hospital for Sick Children. To learn more please visit www.aboutkidshealth.ca/burns

01/22/2026

Stay safe this winter!

Just a reminder to be extra cautious and safe when using space heater and generators this winter.

01/02/2026

Stay safe this season!

Plug your space heater directly into the wall.

11/02/2025

Stay safe!

Daylight Saving Time ends tomorrow. Don't forget to change your smoke alarm batteries and to test them to make sure they're properly working. They could save your life!

10/11/2025

Lithium-ion batteries can start fires if thrown away in the trash or curbside recycling bin.

Recycle batteries safely.

Find a drop-off location near you at call2recycle.org.

10/09/2025

Make sure your batteries are CSA, ULC, ETL, certified

Only use certified batteries. Do not use off brand batteries or charging cords.

10/09/2025

Stay Safe!

Always charge devices with lithium-ion batteries on a hard, flat surface such as a table or counter. Charging on soft surfaces like a bed or couch can trap heat and start a fire.

Learn more at fpw.org/battery

10/06/2025

Fire Prevention Week in Canada serves as an important reminder for families and businesses to review the proactive fire-safety steps they can take to protect lives and property.

This year, special attention is being placed on the growing risk of lithium-ion battery fires in homes and workplaces, as these batteries are commonly used in more and more everyday devices such as smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, power tools, and backup power packs. In Toronto and across Canada, fire departments are reporting more incidents caused by overheating, overcharging, or damaged batteries.

Before you buy anything with a lithium-ion battery, do your homework. Check the packaging and product for CSA approved or the UL/ULC certified mark meaning it meets real safety standards. A lot of products sold online and some in stores don’t, and that can seriously increase your risk of fire.

Electronics with a lithium-ion battery such as phones, laptops, e-bikes or power tools can become a fire hazard if it’s not charged safely. Always use the charger that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer. If the cord only works when you bend it just right, it’s time to replace it!

In addition, it is best practice to never charge lithium-ion batteries unattended or overnight, as most fires occur when batteries are left charging for an extended period of time. In workplaces and residential buildings, damaged or swollen batteries should be replaced immediately, and charging stations should be placed in well-ventilated areas with smoke alarms nearby.