Charge into Fire Safety with Lithium-Ion Batteries This Fire Prevention Week

October 5 to 11, 2025, is Fire Prevention Week (FPW). The City of Kenora Fire and Emergency Services is teaming up with the Office of the Fire Marshal and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week (FPW), to promote this year’s campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” It highlights how important it is to buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely.

Most of the electronics we use every day are powered by lithium-ion batteries, such as smartphones, tablets, lawn and power tools, laptops, headphones, and children’s toys. In fact, most rechargeable electronics use this type of battery.

If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home and identify which devices are powered by them.

"Fire Prevention Week is a reminder that lithium-ion batteries power our daily lives, but they must be used safely. Use the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach. By buying only trusted products, charging them correctly, and recycling them responsibly, we can prevent fires and protect our homes and families," says Fire Chief Gord Howard.

Buy only listed products.

• When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means that it meets important safety standards.
• Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.

Charge devices safely.

• Always use the cords that came with the product to charge it. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
• If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.
• Charge your device on a hard surface. Do not charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch. This could cause a fire.
• Do not overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.

Recycle batteries responsibly.

• Do not throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
• Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit the Transfer Station at 401 Mellick Avenue to discard your lithium-ion batteries for free.
• Use the free Recycle Coach app - What Goes Where tool - to learn more about recycling lithium-ion batteries.

The City’s Fire and Emergency Services encourages all residents to be aware of their devices, follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, and support this year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety.”

Fire Hall Open House 

In addition to Fire Prevention Week, the public is invited to the Fire Hall Open House on Saturday, October 11, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 100 Fourteenth Street North! This is a great opportunity for the whole community to come and meet the members of the City’s Fire and Emergency Services team. Everyone is welcome, so come join us for an exciting and informative Open House. No RSVP necessary. 

Bring your family and friends to take a tour of the facilities and enjoy a free BBQ (while quantities last). There will be fun activities planned for kids, as well as valuable fire safety information and public education materials to take home. Capture memorable photos with the fire truck, and kids will have the chance to sit in the front seat. 

Join our team

Kenora Fire and Emergency Services is looking for motivated, community-minded individuals to join us as Paid Per Call Firefighters. This is your chance to step into a rewarding role where you’ll respond to emergencies, support your neighbours in times of need, and help promote fire safety across the City of Kenora.

No experience? No problem. All training and equipment are provided - what matters most is your dedication, teamwork, and desire to make a difference.

Applications are open now, so don’t wait. Take the first step toward becoming a firefighter and apply today on our Paid Per Call Firefighter Recruitment page. 

Media contact

Mya Horley, Senior Communications Advisor, City of Kenora
mhorley@kenora.ca
807-467-2006