A two-alarm fire at an apartment building in North York on Thursday morning sent two individuals to hospital and forced several residents from their homes. The blaze, which is under investigation, is believed to have been sparked by an e-bike.
Fire Breaks Out on Eglinton Avenue
The incident occurred at a residential building on Eglinton Avenue. Toronto Fire Services responded to the scene after receiving multiple calls reporting the fire. Crews faced significant challenges containing the flames, which prompted the escalation to a two-alarm response, bringing additional resources to the building.
Firefighters worked diligently to evacuate residents and attack the fire. Two people were transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries sustained during the incident. The extent of their injuries has not been publicly disclosed, but their condition is reported as stable.
E-Bike Suspected as Cause, Residents Displaced
While the official cause remains under investigation by the Office of the Fire Marshal, preliminary reports from the scene indicate the fire may have originated with an e-bike battery. This aligns with growing concerns from fire safety officials about the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in micromobility devices.
The fire caused substantial damage to the unit where it started and produced smoke and water damage in adjacent areas. As a result, several residents have been displaced and are receiving assistance from the Red Cross and other community support services for temporary housing and essential needs.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Reminders
The investigation into the exact cause and origin of the fire is ongoing. Officials are examining the scene to determine the precise sequence of events. This incident serves as a critical reminder of fire safety, particularly concerning the charging and storage of e-bikes and similar devices.
Fire officials reiterate key safety tips for e-bike and e-scooter owners:
- Use only the manufacturer-approved charger and battery.
- Do not charge batteries overnight or leave them unattended.
- Keep devices away from exits and primary escape routes.
- Never charge a device that has been damaged or is showing signs of malfunction.
The building management is assessing the full scope of the damage and coordinating with residents regarding the timeline for repairs and re-entry for those displaced.
