As the use of e-bikes, e-scooters and other battery-powered mobility devices continues to grow, so does the importance of understanding lithium-ion battery safety.
Recent fire incidents across North America have highlighted the risks associated with damaged, improperly charged, modified, or uncertified lithium-ion batteries. These fires can spread quickly, produce intense heat and toxic smoke, and pose significant risks in multi-residential communities.
At CAPREIT, the safety and well-being of our residents remain our top priority. We encourage all residents who own or use battery-powered devices to review the safety information below and follow best practices for charging, storage, maintenance, and disposal.
Micromobility devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters have become an increasingly popular way to travel. They offer a convenient, affordable, and environmentally friendly transportation option that can help reduce traffic congestion and support more sustainable communities.
As these devices become more common, however, awareness of lithium-ion battery safety is more important than ever.
Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day, from smartphones and laptops to e-bikes and e-scooters. While generally safe when properly used and maintained, these batteries can present a serious fire hazard if they are damaged, modified, exposed to extreme temperatures, charged improperly, or paired with incompatible chargers or replacement parts.
That’s why CAPREIT continues to promote safe micromobility practices across our properties. By staying informed and following simple safety precautions, residents can help reduce risks while continuing to enjoy the benefits of battery-powered transportation.
From October 5–11, the National Fire Protection Association spotlights a vital fire-safety theme: “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” Lithium-ion cells power the e-bikes and e-scooters that have become familiar sights in cities across Canada and throughout our CAPREIT communities. While these eco-friendly rides offer convenient mobility, their growing presence also brings new challenges for safely charging, storing and maintaining batteries in residential settings.
Most e-bikes and e-scooters are powered by lithium-ion batteries. They are compact, efficient, and powerful, but also carry risks. If damaged, overcharged, or exposed to heat, these batteries can ignite and cause fires that are difficult to extinguish.
Fire departments across the country have have raised concerns about lithium-ion batteries. In multi-unit residential buildings, like our CAPREIT communities, even a small fire can lead to widespread damage, evacuation, and serious injury.
Residents transporting e-bikes or e-scooters must only enter the elevator if it is empty. If other residents are present, please wait for the next available elevator to ensure comfort, safety, and accessibility for all.
Visitors and delivery personnel are not permitted to bring e-bikes or e-scooters into elevators or through common areas. These devices must be parked outside the building in accordance with local bylaws.
Providing safe, compliant storage for battery-powered devices requires specialized infrastructure, ventilation systems, fire suppression, and secure access. Until housing providers are provided guidance by municipalities or provincial regulators, we’ve chosen not to offer communal storage for e-bikes and e-scooters.
We continue to monitor industry developments and municipal pilot programs exploring safe micromobility storage solutions. As technology and safety protocols evolve, we’ll revisit this issue with resident safety as our top priority.
Micromobility is here to stay, but it must be managed responsibly. By following safety guidelines and respecting your community regulations, residents can enjoy the benefits of e-bikes and e-scooters without compromising the wellbeing of others.
Learn more about lithium-ion battery safety from trusted public safety organizations:
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety
https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/energy-transition/ebikes
NFPA Fire Prevention Week: Safe Charging Is a Superpower!
https://www.nfpa.org/en/events/fire-prevention-week
Charged for Life: City of Toronto Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Campaign
✅ Use manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers only
✅ Stay nearby while charging
✅ Charge on hard, non-flammable surfaces
✅ Unplug when fully charged
✅ Watch for swelling, heat, odours, leaks, or unusual noises
✅ Recycle damaged or expired batteries properly
✅ Keep hallways, exits, stairwells, and common areas clear of devices
Discover how CAPREIT is addressing fire safety concerns around lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters and more. We encourage all residents to follow best practices for charging, storage, maintenance, and disposal.
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