It is Fire Prevention Week, running through Saturday October 11. The focus this year is on the risks of lithium-ion batteries.

The City of Campbell River Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association to promote this year’s campaign, which highlights how important it is to buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely.

Found in many everyday electronics from smartphones to tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, headphones, and toys, lithium-ion batteries are often used in rechargeable products, including e-bikes and e-scooters as well.

If not used correctly or if damaged, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode.

Campbell River Fire Chief Kelly Bellefleur says lithium-ion batteries are powerful and convenient, but it’s important to handle and dispose of them safely.

Firefighters will be visiting elementary schools with a Fire Safety House this month to provide hands-on fire safety education to grade three students.

The Campbell River Fire Department encourages all residents to be aware of what’s powering their devices and follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach:

• Buy only listed products that meet important safety standards
• Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it
• Never charge a device under a pillow, or on a bed or couch
• Never dispose of them in the garbage or regular recycling bins, as they could catch fire

Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them.

Visit NFPA for more information about FPW and lithium-ion battery safety.

Visit Call 2 Recycle to find a recycling spot near you.