Vancouver, BC – Vancouver Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) reported a significantly busy weekend from July 19-20, responding to a total of 35 fire calls across the city. Among the incidents, a two-alarm house fire caused by e-mobility devices highlighted growing concerns over the safety of these increasingly popular personal transportation methods. The department shared the comprehensive breakdown of their weekend activities on social media.
The 35 calls included a diverse range of incidents, with outdoor fires being the most frequent at 20 responses. Firefighters also attended to five fires in single-room occupancy (SRO) buildings and five cooking-related incidents. Additionally, three vehicle fires were reported, and "numerous set fires" were referred to the Vancouver Police Department for further investigation, indicating potential arson activity.
A significant incident was the two-alarm house fire attributed to e-mobility devices. These devices, which often rely on lithium-ion batteries, pose a fire risk if batteries are damaged, overcharged, or not manufactured to safety standards. Fire safety experts emphasize the importance of purchasing devices and chargers that meet recognized safety certifications, such as UL standards, to mitigate the risk of thermal runaway and subsequent fires.
The high volume of calls aligns with an observed increase in VFRS service demands, with calls for service in 2024 reportedly up by two percent, reaching 73,767 calls. This consistent demand underscores the critical role of the fire services in maintaining public safety. VFRS continues to advocate for fire prevention and public awareness regarding common fire hazards, including those associated with new technologies.
The department urged residents to exercise caution and adhere to fire safety guidelines to prevent incidents. The referral of multiple set fires to the Vancouver Police Department also highlights an ongoing issue requiring inter-agency collaboration to address public safety and potential criminal activity within the community. VFRS remains committed to protecting lives and property through rapid response and proactive prevention efforts.