08/18/2026
When you are getting ready to leave for vacation, you probably have a mental checklist.
Lock the doors. Check the windows. Adjust the thermostat. Take out the garbage.
Here is one more thing worth adding: check what you have left charging.
The Calgary Fire Department recently responded to three lithium-ion battery fires within just 24 hours. Two involved electric scooters that caught fire while charging.
Calgary firefighters have now responded to 21 lithium-ion battery fires in 2026, already more than the 19 reported during all of 2025.
Lithium-ion batteries are not limited to scooters. They power many of the things we use every day, including phones, laptops, cordless tools, vacuums and e-bikes. The percentage of people who have lithium ion batteries in their home could be arguably quite high, so it's an important thing to remember, especially if you're leaving town for a few days.
As a general best practice, the Calgary Fire Department recommends unplugging batteries once they are fully charged, not leaving batteries unattended while charging, using compatible charging equipment and watching for signs of swelling, damage or overheating.
Our team encourages you to take a few extra minutes to walk through your home and unplug rechargeable devices that do not need to remain connected while you are gone.
For more battery safety information, the Calgary Fire Department has shared additional tips in this video: https://youtu.be/5laB9mtRvZw
Sometimes, protecting it starts with the things you do before you leave. And, our clients know just how many warnings we provide before they leave on their trips. It's always better to be cautious, and prepared.