Did you know 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,”. This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home and to follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach.”

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.org to find a recycling spot near you.

Throughout Fire Prevention Week, residents are encouraged to follow the Smiths Falls Fire Department Facebook page at Facebook.com/SmithsFallsFireDepartment for daily fire safety tips and reminders. To wrap up the week, the Fire Department invites everyone to stop by the Fire Hall on Friday, October 11, from 10 AM to 1 PM for an Open House. Visitors can meet the firefighters, touch the trucks, check out the equipment, pick up safety information, and enjoy treats and fun activities for all ages.

The Smiths Falls Fire department encourages all residents to be aware of their devices, follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, and support this year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™. For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, please contact the Smiths Falls Fire Department at 613-283-5869 or visit fpw.org.

Included photo: Open House graphic

-30-

Media Contact
Joanne Plontz
Communications and Marketing Coordinator
77 Beckwith Street N, Box 695
Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2B8
613-283-4124 ext. 1122
Communications@smithsfalls.ca