National Fire Prevention Week (FPW) runs from October 5 to 11, 2025. This year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The campaign highlights the importance of safely buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries to prevent fires.
Lithium-ion batteries power everyday electronics like phones, laptops, power tools, scooters, e-cigarettes, e-bikes and many more, but improper use or disposal can pose serious fire hazards. Innisfil Fire & Rescue Services (IFRS) encourages residents to follow these safety tips:
- Look for certification marks: When buying a product powered by a lithium-ion battery, look for items marked with UL, ETL, or CSA. These marks mean the device has been tested and meets nationally recognized safety standards.
- Charge safely: Only use the charger that came with the device, or a replacement approved by the manufacturer, and charge on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it when the battery is fully charged.
- Inspect batteries: Check your device regularly for damage and if your battery or device smells strange, gets hot while charging, changes shape or colour, or makes noises, stop using it right away.
- Recycle responsibly: Lithium-ion batteries cannot be disposed of in regular waste or recycling collection. For safe disposal options, visit simcoe.ca/waste.
“Fire safety begins in your home, and we all have a part to play to reduce the risk of fire hazards,” says Fire Chief Brent Thomas. “Educating yourself, and your family and friends is key to staying safe and we encourage everyone to join us to learn more about fire safety at the Pancake Breakfast in Cookstown on October 4.”
IFRS is kicking off FPW activities at the annual Pancake Breakfast at Station 4 (23 King Street North) on October 4. Hosted by the Cookstown Volunteer Firefighters Association, residents are invited to drop by from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. for fire safety materials, pancakes, firetruck tours, and more. IFRS will also be visiting local classrooms this month, providing fire safety education and resources to students in Grades 1-3.
For more fire prevention information, please visit innisfil.ca/firesafety.
