Cause of Toronto shelter fire unknown, but lithium-ion batteries were involved: Fire Services

Toronto Fire Services are investigating a blaze at a city-run shelter where lithium-ion batteries were found to be involved. Crews responded to the highrise at 2180 Islington Ave. early Wednesday morning, encountering smoke and extinguishing a fire on the seventh floor with the help of the building's sprinkler system.

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Arriving crews did encounter smoke and, along with the building’s sprinkler system, put the fire out on the seventh floor.

The exact cause of the fire remains undetermined, but fire officials confirmed that a quantity of lithium-ion batteries were removed from the unit. The investigation will focus on whether these batteries were the source of the fire or merely present. No injuries were reported, and displaced residents will be accommodated in spare units within the building.

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The batteries were compromised inside and then outside. It certainly would have contributed to the intense burn.

This incident highlights a growing concern for Toronto Fire Services, which has responded to 76 lithium-ion battery incidents so far this year. This represents a 35% increase compared to the same period last year, resulting in 14 injuries and two deaths. Fire officials have previously warned about the risks associated with these batteries, particularly when they are damaged, improperly charged, or compromised, leading to a dangerous "thermal runaway" state.

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The consequences can be devastating.