Fire Prevention Week is underway, and the Campbell River Fire Department is asking residents to put their charging “superpowers” to work.

This year’s campaign runs through Saturday, October 10, under the theme “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.”

The campaign focuses on preventing fires involving lithium-ion batteries, which power many everyday products including phones, tablets, laptops, toys, e-bikes, scooters and cordless power tools.

While the batteries are widely used, fire officials warn they can overheat or catch fire when damaged, charged incorrectly or used with unsuitable equipment.

Residents are encouraged to use the charger that came with their device or a replacement approved by its manufacturer.

Cheap, off-brand or incompatible chargers should be avoided.

Rechargeable products should be placed on a hard, flat surface while charging—not on a bed, couch, pillow or other soft material that could trap heat.

Devices should also be unplugged once they are fully charged and should not be left charging longer than necessary.

Fire officials say batteries should be taken out of service immediately if they become unusually hot, begin to swell or leak, give off a strange smell, change colour or make popping or hissing sounds.

Larger rechargeable products, including e-bikes, scooters and power tools, should be charged outside whenever possible.

Charging areas should be kept clear, and devices should never be positioned where they could block a doorway or escape route.

Fire Prevention Week is intended to encourage residents to review fire risks around their homes and take simple precautions before an emergency occurs.

Additional lithium-ion battery and fire-prevention information is available at Fire Prevention Week.