“Charge into fire safety” during Fire Prevention Week, October 5 – 11

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we rely on every day, but if they’re not used or disposed of properly, they can create a serious fire risk. During this year’s Fire Prevention Week, Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) encourages residents to take action and Charge into Fire Safety!™ 

“Fire Prevention Week is about coming together as a community,” says Neill O’Grady, Fire Prevention Officer. “When residents take simple steps to reduce fire risks at home, they protect their families, neighbours and the first responders who serve them.”

The 2025 campaign highlights three important steps: 

1. Buy certified products: anything that uses a lithium-ion battery needs to have Canadian safety marks such as CSA, ULC or ETL.
2. Charge devices safely: always use the charging cord and power supply that came with the product. Charge on a hard surface – never on beds, couches or under pillows. Unplug devices once fully charged.
3. Recycle batteries responsibly: never put lithium-ion batteries in the garbage or blue bin, as they can start fires. Take used batteries and devices to approved recycling locations. 

Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere, from phones and laptops to e-bikes, power tools and toys. While convenient, they can also pose a serious fire risk if not handled properly. By following these simple steps, residents can reduce the risk of dangerous battery fires and help keep our community safe. 

“We’ve seen first-hand the dangers when batteries end up in recycling or garbage loads,” says James Nicholls, Collections Manager with the City of Lethbridge. “Fires have started inside our collection trucks, putting staff and residents at risk. That’s why it is so important to follow the guidelines for safe battery disposal.”

“Lithium-ion batteries are in almost every home in Lethbridge,” says Troy Hicks, Chief Fire Marshall with LFES. “Most people don’t realize that if these batteries are damaged, overcharged or thrown in the garbage, they can quickly become a fire hazard.”

LFES will be in the community during Fire Prevention Week to share more information: 

• Nord-Bridge Seniors Centre, October 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  
• Park Place Mall, October 8, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO), October 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  

The outreach events will offer information on fire safety, batteries and smoke alarms and a chance to win a draw for a fire extinguisher. Residents can also connect with Fire Prevention Officers, ask questions and learn more about protecting their homes.  

For more fire prevention tips, visit FirePreventionWeek.org 

For Public Inquiries:
Call or chat 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.