Midland Fire reminds residents to charge lithium-ion batteries safely

During Fire Prevention Week, October 4–10, the Midland Fire Department is reminding residents that lithium-ion batteries found in many everyday items require safe charging, storage and disposal practices to help prevent fires.

This year's Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge Into Fire Safety™. Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on raising awareness about the safe use of rechargeable batteries found in cell phones, tablets, power tools, e-bikes, scooters, mobility devices, toys and many other household products.

“The Office of the Fire Marshal has identified a growing concern with lithium-ion battery fires across Ontario, and Midland is no exception,” said Midland Fire Chief Richard Renaud. “These fires burn with extreme intensity, develop rapidly, and can be difficult to extinguish. A battery fire can progress much like gasoline on a fire, giving occupants very little time to react.”

The Midland Fire Department encourages residents to follow these simple charging safety tips:

• Use the charger supplied or recommended by the manufacturer.
• Charge devices on a hard, stable surface away from bedding, furniture and other combustible materials.
• Avoid leaving devices charging overnight or when no one is home.
• Unplug devices once they are fully charged.
• Store batteries and devices away from heat sources, combustible materials and exit pathways.

Lithium-ion batteries should never be placed in household garbage or curbside recycling. Midland-area residents can safely dispose of lithium-ion batteries at the North Simcoe Waste Drop-off and Household Hazardous Waste Depot, which accepts batteries of all types. Additional battery recycling locations can be found through RecycleYourBatteries.ca.

For more information about Fire Prevention Week, including additional lithium-ion battery safety tips, visit FPW.org.