Sturgeon County is partnering with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to recognize Fire Prevention Week from October 5 to 11.
This year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” It focuses on the importance of buying, charging and recycling these batteries safely.
Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day—smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few—are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery.
If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home—it’s important to know which devices are powered by them. “Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere,” said Fire Chief Chad Moore. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to help prevent fires in the home and to follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach.”
An important consideration for County residents who use all terrain vehicles (ATVs) is emergency preparedness when operating their vehicle. ATV batteries can overheat, so it’s crucial to have a fire extinguisher on every ATV in the event of an electrical fire.
Buy only listed products.
- When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
- Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
Charge devices safely.
- Always use the cables that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
- If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
- Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
- Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
Recycle batteries responsibly.
- Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
- Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit call2recycle.ca to find a recycling spot near you.
Learn more about lithium-ion battery safety.
Sturgeon County Emergency Services is making several visits to schools with Sturgeon Public Schools to educate students about battery safety.
