Firefighters tackle lithium-ion battery fire at Calgary International Airport

Guests at the Calgary International Airport had to be evacuated due to a fire caused by a lithium-ion battery pack Friday morning.

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) says crews responded to the blaze just after 9:30 a.m.

After airline staff evacuated and closed off the affected areas, firefighters say the pack burned itself out.

No injuries were reported, and there was minimal damage to the flooring of the lounge where the pack was.

“Maintenance staff cleared the area of smoke by utilizing the building’s ventilation system,” crews said.

However, the notice came with caution from the department, letting Calgarians know some safety tips for the batteries.

• Only use ULC or CSA-approved batteries, chargers and cords;
• Don’t use any batteries that are hot, look swollen, are punctured or leaking or are emitting white or grey smoke;
• Avoid leaving batteries charging overnight or in places where they could block exits; and
• Don’t use them in extremely hot or cold conditions and keep them away from heat source and flammable materials.

Firefighters launched an awareness campaign in November, saying lithium-ion battery fires are rising in the city.

CFD says the batteries are commonly found in a number of devices like scooters, e-bikes, phones, laptops, and power tools.

“All lithium-ion batteries, and in particular, uncertified ones, have the potential to overheat, catch fire and cause explosions, with little to no warning,” says Fire Chief Steve Dongworth in a statement at the time.

“These fires can quickly reach temperatures over 500 C, producing toxic gases and dangerous smoke, which often can’t be put out with water.”

The CFD is urging people to only charge with certified and lab tested products.