"Charge into Fire Safety" during Fire Prevention Week

Greater Sudbury Fire Services is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to promote Fire Prevention Week, running from October 5 to 11, 2025. This year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” and it aims to educate everyone on how to use these common batteries safely.

From smartphones and laptops to e-bikes and toys, lithium-ion batteries are in nearly every home. While they are a convenient power source, they can pose a serious fire risk if damaged, misused, or charged improperly. This week, we are urging residents to learn the simple steps they can take to reduce that risk.

To keep your home and family safe, Fire Services recommends following three key steps for battery safety:

BUY Safely: Always purchase electronics and batteries from a reputable retailer and ensure they are certified by a recognized testing agency.

CHARGE Safely: Always use the charger that came with your device. Charge your device on a hard, flat surface—not a bed or couch—and unplug it once it is fully charged.

RECYCLE Safely: Never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash, as they can cause fires in garbage trucks and recycling facilities. Please take them to a designated battery drop-off location for proper disposal.

Fire Prevention Week is an important opportunity to review fire safety in your home. For more tips on lithium-ion battery safety and other fire prevention topics, please visit https://www.greatersudbury.ca/live/emergency-services/fire-services/fire-prevention/.