Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Fire Departments are teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to support Fire Prevention Week, beginning on October 4.

This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on the simple steps people can take to recharge safely. Safe charging means making smart choices every time you plug in.

“Many devices used in our daily lives – phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters—run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. If they are damaged or charged the wrong way, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode,” said Elk Valley & South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Service Acting Chief Ben Goertzen.

Important safety tips to keep in mind:

• Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer.
• Charge devices on a table, desk, or other hard, flat surface. Do not charge them on beds, couches, or under pillows.
• Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, is smoking, or has a strange smell.
• Unplug your device when it is fully charged.
• Charge larger items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and away from exits.
• When on a plane, keep your device where you can see it while charging.

“The way you charge your lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires,” said Columbia Valley Rural Fire & Rescue Service Chief Drew Sinclair. “It comes down to using simple habits each time you plug in.”

To learn more about lithium-ion battery safety, visit www.fpw.org.

RDEK

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