Fire Prevention Week is a good reminder that fire safety starts with the everyday choices we make in our homes, workplaces, shops, and farms. This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower,” with a focus on the safe use and charging of devices powered by lithium-ion batteries.

Rechargeable batteries are now part of everyday life. They power our phones, laptops, cordless tools, e-bikes, toys, household devices and many other products. While these batteries are generally safe when used properly, damaged batteries, improper charging, incompatible chargers or overheating can create a serious fire risk. Thorhild County Emergency Services encourages residents to take a few simple precautions:

• Use the charging cord and equipment recommended by the device manufacturer.
• Do not charge devices on beds, couches, pillows or other soft surfaces where heat can build up.
• Stop using batteries that are swollen, damaged, unusually hot, leaking or giving off an unusual smell.
• Keep batteries and charging devices away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not leave devices charging where they could block an exit or escape route.
• Dispose of lithium-ion batteries properly and never place damaged batteries in household garbage unless permitted by your local disposal program.
• Make sure your home has working smoke alarms and that everyone in your household knows what to do if an alarm sounds.

Fire prevention is something we can all take part in. A few minutes spent checking how and where your devices are being charged, testing your smoke alarms, and talking with your family about fire safety can make a significant difference. On behalf of Thorhild County Emergency Services and our firefighters, I encourage everyone to use Fire Prevention Week as an opportunity to look around your home and identify simple changes that can help keep you and your family safe.

Stay safe and charge safely. For more information, fire safety tips and Fire Prevention Week resources, visit the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Prevention Week website:
https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week

Fire Chief Denis Poulin
Thorhild County Emergency Services