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Oct 15, 2023

Advisory

News provided by 11 May, 2023, 14:59 ET Share this article OTTAWA, ON, May 11,

News provided by

11 May, 2023, 14:59 ET

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OTTAWA, ON, May 11, 2023 /CNW/ -

Summary

Issue

There has been a reported increase in e-mobility device battery fires across North America over the last few years.

In the United States, between January 1, 2021, and November 28, 2022, the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) received reports from 39 different states of at least 208 e-mobility fire or overheating incidents. These incidents resulted in at least 19 fatalities involving electronic scooters and bikes, and hoverboards.

Health Canada is warning people in Canada about the misuse or modification of lithium-ion batteries used in e-mobility devices. Lithium-ion batteries are found in e-mobility devices such as electronic bicycles and scooters, and also in a variety of products such as power tools, toys, personal electronics, vaping products and power banks. Lithium-ion batteries are more easily damaged than other types of batteries and can become hazardous in certain conditions as they are more unstable than other types of batteries.

The lithium-ion batteries found in e-mobility devices are larger and more powerful than those found in smaller products, and incidents involving these batteries can be more severe resulting in "thermal runaway." Thermal runaway can occur when too much heat builds up inside the battery due to damage, malfunction or misuse. This excessive heat, in combination with the highly flammable contents of the lithium-ion battery, can lead to explosions or fires that are extremely difficult to extinguish.

It is important to charge and store your lithium-ion batteries safely (following the guidance below) and to only replace them with parts from the original manufacturer. If the original manufacturer cannot be reached, contact the product retailer. After-market batteries purchased separately or from an unknown source can be a risk as they may not follow the appropriate safety standards and may not be compatible with your e-bike or e-scooter. It is also important to never modify, tamper with or attempt to make your own lithium-ion battery. This could result in the battery being damaged or compromised internally, potentially leading to short circuits, overheating, fires or explosions, and could result in severe injuries and even death.

What you should do:

What Health Canada is doing

Health Canada is committed to helping protect people in Canada from potentially dangerous consumer products. The Department is currently examining the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

Health Canada is working with Transport Canada on this issue. Transport Canada regulates some e-mobility devices, while Health Canada regulates some lithium-ion batteries depending on the products they're used in.

Health Canada regularly monitors consumer products on the Canadian market and will continue to investigate reports related to after-market lithium-ion batteries to help keep consumers safe. The Department will also take enforcement actions if there is reason to believe a consumer product poses a danger to human health or safety.

Stay connected with Health Canada and receive the latest advisories and product recalls using social media tools.

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SOURCE Health Canada

For further information: Media Enquiries: Health Canada, (613) 957-2983, [email protected]; Public Enquiries: (613) 957-2991, 1-866 225-0709; Media Enquiries: Transport Canada, (613) 993-0055, [email protected]; Public Enquiries: (613) 990-2309, 1-866 995-9737