by Staff Writer
The Carroll County Board of Commissioners proclaimed October 5th through October 11th as Fire Prevention Week.
The Carroll County Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFEMS) is collaborating with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW), to promote this year’s campaign titled “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”
This campaign highlights the critical importance of buying, charging, and recycling lithium-ion batteries safely. These batteries power most rechargeable electronics found in homes today, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys.
If misused or damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, ignite fires, or even explode. “Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere,” said Michael Robinson, Chief of DFEMS. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home and to follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach.”
The campaign urges residents to buy only products that carry a stamp from a nationally recognized testing laboratory, as many items sold online or in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase fire risks.
When charging devices, users should always use the original or manufacturer-approved cords, charge devices on hard surfaces instead of soft ones like beds or couches, and avoid overcharging by unplugging devices or removing batteries when fully charged.
Regarding disposal, lithium-ion batteries should never be thrown in the trash or regular recycling bins due to fire hazards; instead, they should be taken to designated battery recycling locations, which can be found at call2recycle.org.
To raise awareness, DFEMS is encouraging residents to follow these safety guidelines and support the Fire Prevention Week theme. Several related events will occur throughout the county, including Hampstead Fire Station’s 125th anniversary parade on Main Street at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 4th, followed by an open house at the station.
In addition, DFEMS personnel and volunteers will visit elementary schools to deliver fire prevention programs. For more information about local events, residents can visit the DFEMS station webpage and locate their community fire station’s website. To learn more about Fire Prevention Week and lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.
