Fire Prevention Week 2025: Charge into Fire Safety
This year, Fire Prevention Week (October 5 to 11) is focused on a modern fire risk hiding in plain sight: lithium-ion batteries. Found in everything from smartphones to scooters, these rechargeable devices make life easier, but if mishandled, they can spark serious danger. Byron Station Captain Cedo emphasizes: “Take care when handling your lithium-ion batteries. Damage to batteries or cells may cause thermal runaway and a fire to occur. If batteries are damaged, do not continue to use them. Check them regularly and if they are damaged, replace them with new batteries.” First, buy smart by purchasing batteries and devices from reputable manufacturers and retailers, and look for safety certification marks on the batteries, such as UL, ETL, or CSA. UL. These agencies test the product to ensure it will do what the manufacturer says it will and that it meets important safety standards. Second, charge safely. Always use the cords and chargers that came with your phone or other device and follow any instructions that were included. Don’t overcharge your device – unplug it or remove the battery when it’s complete. Also, make sure to charge your device on a hard surface. “Do not use aftermarket charging cords or plugs; use the manufacturer’s cords or plugs to charge safely,” adds Captain Cedo. Third, dispose of your batteries properly. Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Take them to a battery recycling drop- off location. You can find drop-off locations near you at rpra.ca/ where-to-recycle or Call2recycle.org. And while you’re thinking about fire safety, don’t forget one of the simplest, most effective tools: your smoke alarm. “Only working smoke alarms save lives. Ensure you have a working smoke alarm on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas,” says Deputy Fire Chief Matt Hepditch.
Firefighters from Byron Fire Station 12 – D Platoon: Captain Cedo, Bruce, Mitch, Clayton
About the Byron Fire Station: Byron Fire Station 12 is part of the London Fire Department (LFD), which exists to protect the lives and property of our community by responding to fires, medical emergencies, car accidents and chemical incidents. They also provide services related to public education and fire prevention and respond to technical rescues and public assistance. The current fire hall was built in 2000 and is staffed by four platoons, each with four firefighters who are ready to serve the Byron community. Stay up to date with the LFD by following them on Facebook, Instagram, and X (for active incidents) at @ldnontfire. Photo courtesy of London Fire Department Protect the ones you love LFD - Fire Preventative Series 3.875”w x 4.75”d
Your LIVES Depend on it! Test Your Alarms.
london.ca/fire
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Page 17 Byron Villager October 2025
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