REGINA, Sask. — The City of Regina has proclaimed Oct. 4 to 10 as Fire Prevention Week. The theme for this year's Fire Prevention Week is “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” encouraging fire safety while charging lithium-ion batteries.
Watch Fire Chief Layne Jackson's message for Fire Prevention Week
“While lithium-ion batteries are typically safe to have in your home, if they are damaged or charged the wrong way they can overheat, start a fire or even explode,” said Fire Chief Layne Jackson. "With so many of the devices we use in our day-to-day lives powered by these batteries, knowing how to charge them safely and what to watch out for is our first line of defense when it comes to reducing the risk of a fire."
“Fire Prevention Week is an opportunity for all of us to learn about simple things we can do to protect our families, our property and our community," said Mayor Chad Bachynski. "This year's theme focuses on practical habits to ensure we're recharging safely. I encourage everyone to take part in Fire Prevention Week activities and learn how we can all help prevent fires before they start.”
Regina Fire & Protective Services and the National Fire Protection Association remind residents to:
- Use the charger and cord that came with your device, or one approved by the manufacturer. Only use chargers that bear one of the recognized Canadian certification marks.
- Charge your device on a hard surface. Soft surfaces like beds, pillows and couches can trap heat and block airflow.
- Don’t overcharge. Leaving a device plugged in after it is fully charged can increase heat and stress on the battery.
- Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, smells strange, leaks, smokes or makes popping or hissing sounds. If it is safe to do so, move the device away from anything that can catch fire, then call 9-1-1.
- Charge large items like e-bikes, scooters and power tools outside when possible.
Residents are also reminded not to throw lithium-ion batteries in garbage or recycling bins. Instead, dispose of them at the Household Hazardous Materials Depot or visit RecycleYourBatteries.ca to find a safe battery recycling location near you.
Regina Fire & Protective Services will host two open houses during the week. Residents are invited to stop by and tour the fire station, meet firefighters and learn more about lithium-ion battery safety and fire safety in your home. Attendees are also encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for donation to the Regina Food Bank.
- Wednesday, Oct. 7, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Fire Station 3, 2640 31st Avenue - Saturday, Oct. 10, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Fire Station 2, 1770 9th Avenue North
For more practical information on fire prevention and safety, visit Regina.ca/FireOpens in new window.
