It’s time for Fire Truck Rides! October is National Fire Prevention Month and the Susanville Fire Department is inviting everyone to stop by for their fun-filled, family-oriented annual Open House at the Fire hall on Main Street this Saturday, October 11th.
The theme of this year’s Fire Prevention Month is, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home” and the folks at the Susanville Fire Department will be helping to educate everyone about using these batteries safely. The campaign stresses how important it is to buy, charge and recycle safely when it comes to lithium-ion batteries.
Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day — smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few — are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery.
If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home — it’s important to know which devices are powered by them.
Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere. 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.”
Charge into Fire Safety: 3 Steps
Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.
Charge devices safely. Always use the cords that came with the product to charge. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
Recycle batteries responsibly. Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.
The free, fun, family-oriented event will give everyone a chance to meet our local firefighters with hands-on activities, fire engine rides, equipment displays, the fire safety trailer and food and refreshments. You can even meet Sparky the Fire Dog!
The event, which runs from 10:00a.m. until 2:00p.m., will feature demonstrations, tours, fire engine rides, prizes and giveaways.
