Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) to support Fire Prevention Week. This year’s FPW 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, like 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.
To honour this week, Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services is welcoming residents to an open house on Tuesday, October 6 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at three locations. Choose the one that works best for you:
- Town Park Recreation Centre (62 McCaul Street)
- Fire Station 2 (4366 County Rd 2)
- Fire Station 3 (3585 Ganaraska Rd)
At all locations, you can participate in a touch-a-truck, free BBQ and live demonstrations focused on Lithium-Ion Battery Safety. Learn how to safely charge, store and use lithium-ion battery powered devices to help prevent a fire at home.
Key safety tips and guidelines:
- Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
- Charge devices on a table, desk, or other hard, flat surface. Do not charge them on beds, couches, or under pillows. Devices and chargers produce heat during normal charging. Soft surfaces can trap heat and block airflow, which can cause the battery to overheat.
- Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, is smoking, or has a strange smell. These are warning signs that the battery may be damaged or failing.
- Unplug your device when it is fully charged. Do not leave it plugged in longer than needed. Leaving a device plugged in too long can increase heat and stress on the battery.
- Charge larger items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and away from exits. These batteries are larger and store more energy. If they fail, fires can grow quickly and spread.
- When on a plane, keep your device where you can see it while charging. Do not charge devices in overhead compartments. Do not charge e-cigarettes or vapes on a plane. If a battery overheats or fails, it is important for the flight crew to respond quickly.
For more information about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.
2026-10-04
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