Fire Prevention Week October 4-10: Safe Charging Is a Superpower
HALTON HILLS, ON – Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere, powering many of the devices’ residents rely on every day, from smartphones and laptops to power tools, e-bikes and e-scooters. This Fire Prevention Week, the Halton Hills Fire Department is reminding residents that simple, safe charging habits can help prevent fires before they start.
The Halton Hills Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to recognize Fire Prevention Week, taking place October 4 to 10, 2026. This year’s campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on safely charging devices powered by lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable and can store a large amount of energy in a small space. While generally safe to use, damaged batteries or batteries that are improperly used, stored or charged can overheat and potentially cause a fire or explosion.
“Lithium-ion batteries power so many of the devices we use every day, including e-scooters, laptops and smartphones,” said Fire Prevention Officer Jason Blackmere. “A battery fire can start quickly and spread rapidly, which is why safe charging habits are so important. Taking a few simple precautions when buying, charging, using and disposing of batteries can help protect your home, your family and your neighbourhood.”
The Halton Hills Fire Department encourages residents to put their charging superpowers to work by following these safety tips:
- Choose certified products. When purchasing electrical products that plug into an outlet, look for a recognized Canadian certification mark such as CSA, cUL or cETL, which indicates the product meets Canadian electrical safety standards.
- Use the right charger. Use the charging cord and charger that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer.
- Charge on a hard, flat surface. Avoid charging devices on beds, couches or under pillows, where heat can become trapped.
- Unplug when fully charged. Once a device is fully charged, unplug it rather than leaving it connected longer than necessary.
- Keep exits clear. Charge devices away from exits. For larger items such as e-bikes, e-scooters and power tools, NFPA recommends charging outside and away from exits.
- Know the warning signs. Stop using a device if it becomes very hot, begins to swell, smells unusual, leaks, smokes or makes popping or hissing sounds.
- Dispose of batteries properly. Lithium-ion batteries require appropriate disposal and should not be placed in household garbage. Health Canada advises checking with your municipality for instructions on safely disposing of rechargeable batteries.
Understanding how to safely buy, charge, use, store and dispose of lithium-ion batteries can help reduce the risk of fires and keep homes and neighbourhoods safer. Learn more about fire and public safety education on the Town’s website.
About the Town of Halton Hills
The Town of Halton Hills, with a population of approximately 70,000, consists of two urban centres, Georgetown and Acton, the Halton Hills Premier Gateway employment area, three hamlets – Glen Williams, Stewarttown and Norval – and several smaller settlements. Halton Hills has long been recognized for its natural beauty, active agricultural community, high quality of life and proximity to major centres, including Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto. The Town is ranked as one of the top small communities in Canada by a national magazine.