Fire Prevention Week

The Windsor Fire & Rescue Services is teaming up with NFPA to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week, October 5-11, Charge Into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.

Help us spread the word about making smart choices when it comes to buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries—because the wrong move can lead to a fire.

Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day, including 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 used incorrectly 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 James Waffle.

This year’s campaign aims to help 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.

1. Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins, because they could catch fire.
2. Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling facility is the best way to dispose of them. Visit the public drop off location at Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority at 3560 North Service Rd. E or call2recycle.ca to find a recycling spot near you.